Magic was not uncommon among our kind, many centuries ago. When we warred with humans, and lived more among the fringes of the world, it was no doubt needed to survive.

[ But now everything is totally fine and magic is boring anyway, especially when it causes curses like this! ]

It is likely that the knowledge was lost, as the oldest vampires guarded their secrets closely. I myself have been searching the archives of the library for any similar instances, to limited success. A transfusion of blood may be most successful, but it is unclear if such a solution would benefit a Novice, when you have not become undying.