A Milestone in India: Successful Treatment of a 14-Month-Old Kenyan Infant with Pearson Syndrome at Fortis Hospital Gurgaon.
Fortis Hospital Gurgaon has achieved a remarkable feat in medical science by successfully treating a 14-month-old infant from Kenya diagnosed with Pearson syndrome. The baby, named Arianna, faced severe health complications, but after receiving stem cell therapy, her prognosis for a better quality of life has significantly improved.
What is Pearson syndrome?
Pearson syndrome, also known as Pearson’s mucopolysaccharidosis type I, is a rare genetic disorder mostly observed in children. This condition is caused by a deficiency of the enzyme alpha-galactosidase A, which leads to the accumulation of toxic products in the body. This accumulation has been known to cause some life-threatening problems, such as liver disorders, heart disorders, bone disorders, respiratory disorders, and stunted growth.
Patient’s Successful Treatment Journey
Arianna, who was born in Kenya, was diagnosed with Pearson syndrome when she was just a young age. The condition had severely affected her growth and development, leaving her with respiratory difficulties and delays in cognitive milestones. The infant’s parents sought specialized treatment for their daughter, but finding a compatible donor was challenging due to the rarity of the disease.
Fortis Hospital Gurgaon, led by Dr. Vikas Dua, was determined to find a solution for Arianna. Recognizing the significance of a half-matched transplant, they approached Arianna’s mother as a partial donor (Patient Arianna neither had any sibling match nor was there any unrelated donor available).
Therefore the transplant was done by extracting hematopoietic stem cells from Arianna’s mother and then re-transfusing them into the baby’s bloodstream. This type of transplant known as an allogenic transplant, allows for a partial match with the donor, thus reducing the chances of rejection and potential complications.
Following the successful stem cell transplant, Arianna’s condition improved significantly. The medical team at Fortis Hospital Gurgaon closely monitored Arianna’s progress throughout the treatment journey. She was discharged in a stable condition within 21 days and has been regularly attending weekly OPD follow-ups.
Due to the successful transplant, she is now 5 months post-transplant and also does not require any further blood transfusions. Moreover, she is gradually gaining weight without any further complications.
The breakthrough in Arianna’s treatment is a testament to the dedication and expertise of the team of doctors who worked tirelessly to provide her with the life-saving care she needed. Dr. Vikas Dua, who led the team, emphasized the significance of collaboration between hospitals and medical institutions in overcoming challenges like rare diseases.
“Arianna’s case marks a first in India, highlighting the potential of half-matched stem cell transplants in treating patients with rare genetic disorders like Pearson syndrome.”
Conclusion
The remarkable journey of Arianna, a 14-month-old Kenyan infant with Pearson syndrome, demonstrates the exceptional medical capabilities of Fortis Hospital Gurgaon. Through collaborative efforts and innovative solutions, the hospital successfully treated the infant, offering hope for a brighter future for those affected by rare disorders.
Revolutionizing Cancer Treatment: The Introduction of MR Linac at Fortis Hospital
Preciseness and innovation define the quality of cancer therapies and their ability to impact the lives of patients positively. Advanced technologies have greatly transformed our approach to combating this deadly ailment.
One such breakthrough is the MR Linac, a revolutionary cancer treatment system that combines two powerful technologies: thus Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and Linear Accelerator (Linac) radiation therapy.
Fortis Hospital one of the most progressive healthcare centres has now reached a new frontier in interventionist healthcare by introducing this front-line technology in its oncology service line.
The question here is what makes MR Linac such a game-changer in cancer care, and how will it impact patients at Fortis Hospital?
What is MR Linac?
The MR Linac is currently the only machine globally that offers both simultaneous imaging through MRI technology and radiation therapy to a tumor with high precision. While traditional radiation therapy is based on imaging like CT scans, MR Linac does it several steps better. This revolutionary device makes it possible for doctors to monitor and change treatment in real-time so that radiation can get to the intended area without affecting the healthy tissues.
It is particularly important in cases where the tumor is localized at vital organs or when the tumor undergoes displacement, for example, lung, liver, or prostate cancer. Control of the radiation dose during the course of the treatment guarantees that the patient will be receiving the best care possible.
How MR Linac is Revolutionalising Cancer Treatment at Fortis Hospital?
In the last few years, Oncology care has received significant attention to improving the life quality of patients with cancer and rising access to sophisticated and promising technologies has proven Fortis Hospital as the leading hospital in using modern medical equipment, but the integration of MR Linac takes it to a new level. The advantages of this new technology are immense, providing better results to the patient and making the treatments more bearable.
Real-time Imaging & Therapy.
While conventional radiation therapy systems manufacturers mostly focus on developing techniques that accurately deliver the radiation dose to the tumor region, the MR Linac gives doctors the ability to see the tumor while administering radiation therapy. This is a great benefit, particularly in cases of cancers that migrate with breathing or shift in shape during treatment. In response to these changes, the MR Linac balances the radiation to improve the accuracy of each treatment session. In the context of Fortis, it is a positive trend since patients are being treated more personally, thus, having better cancer outcomes and lesser side effects.
Reduction of Harm to Other Parts of the Body
One of the most significant issues in radiation therapy; generally, is the effect on the healthy tissues around the tumor has always been quite worrisome. This is a rather large risk and MR Linac’s real-time imaging minimizes this to a significant extent. It is through the real-time tracking of these movements that the focus is made to ensure that radiation gets to the cancer cells and little affects the healthy tissues around the cancerous cells. In the case of patient care in Fortis Hospital this results in fewer complications, less discomfort, and a faster recovery period.
Personalized Treatment Plans
Cancer is termed as a silent killer in which no two cancers are alike, and neither are the treatment procedures. The primary advantage of MR Linac is the ability to customize the treatment to precisely match the location, size, and behavior of the tumor throughout the treatment. This is a breakthrough since the Fortis oncologists can organize the sessions according to patients’ changing needs and this results in improved results and streamlined treatment.
Achieving Better Results of Cancers That Are Difficult to Treat
Certain cancers for instance those affecting the lungs, pancreas, or the prostate are complicated to treat because of their position or their neighboring organs. The MR Linac is most helpful for those cancers; it provides a level of accuracy that was not possible before. This technology provides new means of delivering highly effective treatments with fewer side effects for patients at Fortis.
What This Means for Patients?
In regard to patients and their families the word “Cancer” becomes a very costly word to handle. Getting back on track is often described as a journey that may be challenging and confusing at times. However, with the innovation of new technologies such as the MR Linac, there is new cause for hope. This system enables the provision of more focused and precise treatments with fewer side effects for a shorter period of time. For many, it could make a difference between a long and stressful treatment procedure and one that can be more easily endured.
In choosing to introduce MR Linac, the institution is not just treating cancer, but it is changing how the disease is managed one at a time in an efficient, targeted, and individualized manner.
Take Away
Against cancer, the most crucial weapon is innovation, and the MR Linac is a dazzling light among all of these. The commitment displayed by Fortis Hospital in introducing this revolutionary technology to its patients underlines the culture of being at the forefront of the fight against this deadly disease not only within the Indian subcontinent but globally. This is a far more effective approach than thinking of it as simply a new piece of equipment, it is a new path for how cancer will be combatted, with the accuracy, flexibility, and tender care that patient needs and deserves.
Bone Marrow Transplant in India For Kenya Patient
Patients from throughout the world seeking affordable, high-quality stem cell treatment in India have been successfully treated and offered healthcare services in India. The life of patients from Kenya depends on their ability to receive better treatment and to get better. For patients on the lookout for stem cell treatment facilities at reasonable rates, India is one of the best sources of premium quality stem cell healthcare.
What is Bone Marrow Transplant?
A bone marrow transplant is a medical procedure that uses healthy blood-forming stem cells to replace bone marrow that isn’t generating enough healthy blood cells. A bone marrow transplant is often known as a stem cell transplant. You could need a bone marrow transplant if your body is unable to produce healthy blood cells or is not releasing enough of them. Cells from a donor or your own body can be used in a bone marrow transplant (autologous transplant) (allogeneic transplant).
Why is India the best place for Kenya Patients to have a Bone Marrow Transplant and Other Treatments?
Kenyans are keenly conscious of their needs in terms of health. Patients opt to travel abroad for medical care as Kenya’s medical system is not as advanced as compared to other countries. This was also the case in the past when only wealthy and successful Kenyans could afford to go to other countries for treatment. Patients from Kenya are now able to afford many treatments thanks to India’s emergence as one of the best and most important centers for medical tourism in the world, and they have begun congregating there for all health-related issues.
There are several justifications for choosing India as the top location for medical tourism. Imagine receiving a difficult medical procedure from the best-skilled surgeons in India for a fraction of the price of what it would cost in other major nations. That’s India for you! Many people throughout the world now recognize that India has some of the most skilled doctors in every area of medicine. In addition to high-quality facilities, a variety of treatments, highly-trained staff that can perform any medical procedure, and zero wait times, the list of advantages seems endless.
India is an excellent choice for anyone who wants to be treated there since it has the most affordable treatment costs. India provides top-notch healthcare on par with that of any western country. All reputable hospitals have made significant investments in medical equipment and operating methods. Therefore, sophisticated technology is used for complex cardiac operations, cancer treatments and surgeries, neuro surgeries, and even routine procedures to ensure safe and effective outcomes, reduce problems, speed up recovery, and shorten hospital stays. You may be sure to receive only the finest in India because of the excellent infrastructure, the greatest medical facilities, and the most affordable costs.
How is Bone Marrow Transplants Carried Out?
Typically, stem cells are taken out of a peripheral vein. The entire bone marrow transplant procedure is comparable to giving blood or platelets. Blood cells like platelets (thrombocytes), white blood cells (leukocytes), and red blood cells (erythrocytes), which are later injected into a recipient following a brief course of chemotherapy, are produced by bone marrow stem cells.
The bone marrow transplant operation in India, which is used to treat a number of illnesses, is highly safe for the donor (both cancerous and non-cancerous). Additionally, six to twelve months following a successful bone marrow transplant, the patient can resume a regular, healthy lifestyle.
The Procedure for Medical Visa from Kenya to India
If you hold a Kenyan passport and satisfy the following conditions, you can apply for a medical visa:
- The only purpose for visiting India is to seek medical attention.
- The treatment center is a recognized hospital or healthcare institution that has received government accreditation in India.
- A maximum of two family members or close friends will be present with the patient as medical attendants. A “Medical Attendant Visa” must be applied for individually by medical attendants.
Read More – Medical Visa From Kenya to India
How MedsurgeIndia Help?
Medsurge India is a respected assistance system for people seeking physicians, hospitals, and specialist therapies. For you, we’ll identify the best medical solutions. Our staff will provide you with a list of licensed, recognized, and trustworthy physicians and medical facilities in relation to your medical needs. Additionally, we provide a cost-effective treatment plan. Aside from that, we help patients with a wide range of other things, like getting travel permissions and medical visas.
Interview with BBC India on Why Patients are Flocking to India for Surgery: Mrs. Garima Magu Director of Medsurge India
The appeal of medical treatment in India has been a focal point of conversations globally. With its advancement in healthcare facilities and its wide range of medical services across various specialties, India has become a favored destination for patients globally. The insights from Ms Garima Magu in a recent BBC India exclusive underline the significance of “Government guidelines vital for professionalism in Medical Value Tourism (MVT) and positioning India as a key player in the medical tourism sector.”
Mrs. Garima Magu, one of the Director at Medsurge India, highlights the importance of government guidelines to regulate hospitals, facilitators, and support services in Medical Value Tourism (MVT). She emphasizes the necessity for such regulations to ensure professionalism within the industry. By implementing these guidelines, the government can establish standards for quality care, safety, and transparency, ultimately enhancing the reputation and reliability of MVT. Mrs. Garima Magu suggests that adherence to these guidelines will not only benefit the patients who are seeking medical treatment in India but will also contribute to the overall growth and credibility of the MVT sector in India.
Reasons Patients Choose India for Medical Treatment
India’s appeal as a premier destination for medical tourism is multifaceted, driven by several compelling factors that attract patients globally. Here, we explore the seven key reasons that contribute to its popularity:
World-Class Medical Infrastructure: The country boasts internationally accredited hospitals and clinics that offer modern state-of-the-art facilities and rival those found in more developed countries.
Skilled Medical Professionals: India is home to experienced and highly skilled medical professionals and many of them have received their education and training at prestigious institutions globally ensuring high standards of medical care for patients who come to India for treatment.
Cost-Effective Treatment Options: The key significant advantage is the affordability of medical treatment in India. Procedures cost about 30% to 70% less compared with Western nations ultimately making it a financially attractive option for many patients.
Minimal Waiting Time: There is a shorter period of waiting time as India offers timely medical services which enables quicker treatment and diagnosis.
Diverse Medical Treatments: Individuals have access to a wide range of specialized treatments across various medical fields in India.
Holistic Treatment Approaches: Holistic approaches such as Ayurveda, Yoga, and Naturopathy approach appeal to those seeking more than just conventional treatment.
Cultural and Language Compatibility: English is widely spoken and understood in many major cities and healthcare institutions making it easy for patients to communicate with doctors and healthcare members.
Take Away
With the continuous growth in the healthcare sector and driven by factors like medical tourism and expansion. Patients flock to India for medical treatments and surgeries. Moreover, the government and healthcare providers are increasingly focused on digital transformation and expanding primary care networks to promote preventive care, aiming to establish India as the premier global destination for medical tourism.
