Princess Alexandra

There are concerns about Princess Alexandra's health, following reports that Her Royal Highness has cancelled all engagements "for the foreseeable future".

Princess Alexandra, the Hon Lady Ogilvy, KG, GCVO,  is the youngest granddaughter of GEORGE V, a cousin the The Queen, and sister of The Duke of Kent and Prince Michael of Kent.

HRH is suffering from polymyalgia rheumatic, a particularly debilitating type of arthritis.

It can cause not only the typical, painful joint stiffness but it can actually lead to blindness.

HRH is believed to be undergoing treatment by taking steroids which can cause the bones to become thin and the face to become puffy.

A Palace spokeswoman added:

“Her Royal Highness had a viral infection at the end of last year and was advised to rest. We do not know when she will next appear in public.” 

Public concern has been heightened as Princess Alexandra has not been seen all year and even missed the coronation anniversary activities.

Her husband, the Rt Hon Sir Angus Ogilvy KCVO, died in 2004.