Is the “Tree-Man Case” a Hoax?

Well, I’m sure you all know everything about the Indonesian “Tree-Man” and about his giant warts. Nevertheless, I’m writing this post because the affair had some interesting sequels; and, of course, because the available materials may rise some doubts.
A synopsis of the case

The case was brought into the public attention by the Discovery Chanel, about one month ago. Dede, a 36 years old indonesian man, presented a very rare disease which progressively transformed his hands and feet into “branches” or “roots”. Presumaby, Dede had contacted a type of the Human Papilloma Virus some 19 years ago; in addition, because of a genetic anomaly, which made his body unable to fight an infection. Dede has two cildren, aged 18 and 16 years old.
If you’re not familiar with the case, please watch this video:

The sequels

Two weeks ago, some Indonesian newspapers accused their Government of refusing Dede’s medical assistance in US.
Last Sunday (November 25), the Indonesian ministry of Health accused Discovery Channel of making use of Dede’s image for free. The Government annouced that it would provide Dede a lawyer, in order to defend his rights against Discovery Channel.
In response of the Indonesian press accusation, the Ministry of Health claimed Dede never asked to be transported in the US.
Dr Anthony Gaspari, with the University of Maryland (Medical Center) got interested in Dede’s case and examined him. Indonesian authorities announced their willing to sustain the American doctor’s assistance. (You can read Gaspary’s first opinions on the NewScientist website.
(source)
On the other hand, lasm Monday (November 26), the Indonesian President, Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono, requested that the Ministry of Health formed a medical team in order to give Dede the proper assistance. A team (18 doctors) was instantly formed and Dede was hospitalized.
(source)

Some Questions (& Doubts)

1. Why would the Indonesian Government refused Dede’s medical assistance in the US?
2. Why was it necessary the formation of an Indonesian medical team, whilst Dr Anthony Gaspary almost began the cure?
3. What is the Papilloma Virus type Dede has contacted (the HPV has over 100 types, very different in their symptoms and effects).
4. (this is the most important question): Why are Dede’s sleeves so tide? If you watch again the movie, you’ll surely notice this “insgnificant” detail.

Final thoughts

To be honnest, I really don’t know what to think about the veridicity of this case. Anyhow, the case isn’t too sound. Nore the reactions it occasionned. What do you think? Is it a true medical drama, or is it a huge hoax?

PS Here’s a similar case, the Romanian “Bird-Man”. (The case is similar in many respects, including the interest shown by the Discovery Channel and the authorities ambiguous position).

— scris de gavagai