• Mother saves daughter with a rare condition by donating stem cells -  

Hyderabad, 21st Sept 2023 — American Oncology Institute (AOI) Hyderabad successfully treated a 4-year-old girl through a groundbreaking Haploidentical stem cell transplantation, where her mother served as a donor. The young patient, named Deepika, initially sought medical help due to bleeding gums and frequent nosebleeds (epistaxis).  

Her condition was further complicated by a drastically low platelet count (thrombocytopenia), which reached a critical level of 3000. Suspecting immune thrombocytopenia, Dr Ashok Kumar, Haemato-Oncologist & Bone Marrow Transplant Physician at AOI initiated treatment with steroids. Upon further investigation, her bone marrow tests indicated amegakaryocytic thrombocytopenia, a rare congenital disorder where the bone marrow fails to produce sufficient platelets.  

Dr Ashok Kumar, shared his insights, saying, "Congenital amegakaryocytic thrombocytopenia (CAMT) is a rare, inherited disorder characterized by a severely low number of megakaryocytes, a type of bone marrow cell that makes platelets that are important for clotting and preventing bleeding. Deepika's case exemplifies the extraordinary resilience of young patients and the power of advanced medical interventions. Our collaborative approach, combined with her mother's selfless contribution as a donor, paved the way for this heartening success." 

Advancing their diagnostic efforts, the medical team employed Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) and identified a homozygous MPL mutation, a genetic alteration related to congenital a megakaryocytic thrombocytopenia. Given the complexity of the case, AOI Hyderabad's experts decided on a curative approach—Haploidentical stem cell transplantation, using Deepika's mother as the donor. 

The peritransplant period proved difficult for Deepika, as she encountered complications such as seizures, hypertension, and others. However, the medical team managed these symptoms with proper medication and ensure her safety and recovery. After five months of rigorous medical care, Deepika made remarkable progress. Her platelet count improved significantly, exceeding 100,000, a positive sign of her body's response to the treatment. As her health stabilized, her medications were carefully tapered, and she now relies on a single medication. 

Dr Prabhakar P, Regional Chief Operating Officer, expressing his views stated, "By embracing cutting-edge treatments and fostering a nurturing environment, we aspire to provide hope and healing to every patient and family that walks through our doors. Deepika's journey to recovery after undergoing a rare and complex Haploidentical stem cell transplantation underlines AOI’s dedication to pushing medical boundaries for the betterment of patients' lives." 

American Oncology Institute (AOI) at Citizens Specialty Hospital, Nallagandla in Hyderabad offers a wide range of cancer treatment services in the region. The comprehensive cancer facility, housed within the 300-bed hospital, is dedicated to delivering integrated cancer care of the highest standard, powered by clinical excellence, cutting-edge technology, and international expertise. As a proud member of the elite global network of the International Tumor Board, AOI in Hyderabad collaborates closely with leading medical professionals worldwide. AOI Hyderabad specializes in a range of dedicated services, including Pediatric Hemato Oncology & BMT and Uro-oncology. Additionally, AOI's Comprehensive Robotic Program employs cutting-edge technology for precise surgical interventions. Advanced Pain Management ensures optimal comfort and relief during treatment, while the Critical Care service ensures round-the-clock monitoring and support for critical cases. 

This is a press release received from the American Oncology Institute any views, opinions, statements, or information contained in this press release are solely those of American Oncology Institute and do not reflect the views or opinions of Medicircle.