Who Should Consider Bone Marrow Transplant?

Doctors typically recommend a bone marrow transplant when a patient's bone marrow no longer functions properly. This procedure is suggested for individuals suffering from chronic conditions that affect bone marrow function. Conditions that may require a bone marrow transplant include:

Ischemic (Low-flow) Priapism:

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  Blood disorders like aplastic anemia, sickle cell anemia, or thalassemia
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  Immune deficiency infections
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  Solid tumors
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  Inherited disorders like congenital neutropenia causing frequent infections
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  Amyloidosis
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  Myelofibrosis
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  Bone marrow failure
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  Chemotherapy or radiation therapy damage

Types of Bone Marrow Transplants

There are two primary types of bone marrow transplant procedures, each tailored to the patient's needs.

1. Allogeneic Transplant

In this type, the patient receives stem cells or bone marrow from a donor whose genes partially match the patient. The donor can be a sibling, parent, child, or even an unrelated individual who matches genetically. Before the transplant, compatibility tests are conducted to ensure a good match.

2. Autologous Transplant

This procedure involves using the patient's own stem cells. These stem cells are collected before the patient undergoes high-dose treatments like chemotherapy or radiation. After treatment, the stem cells are reintroduced into the patient's body, where they regenerate healthy blood cells. This procedure is also called a “rescue transplant.”

3. Umbilical Cord Blood Transplant

A form of allogeneic transplant, this process involves harvesting stem cells from a newborn's umbilical cord. The stem cells are then frozen and stored for future use. These cells require a less perfect genetic match, although the recovery process may take longer.

Bone Marrow Transplant Process

Before the transplant, a series of evaluations are required to ensure the procedure's success:

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  General Fitness Exam: A physical exam and cancer screening to assess the overall health of the patient.
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  Bone Marrow Biopsy: This helps determine the bone marrow's function and disease involvement.
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  Blood Tests: Including HIV testing and gene compatibility checks.
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  Tissue Typing: For allogeneic transplants, blood tests are done to evaluate donor-recipient compatibility.
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  Imaging Tests: MRI, PET scan, or CT scan to identify abnormalities in the organs.
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  Psychological Evaluation: To address stress and financial concerns.
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  Skeletal Survey: Multiple X-rays to evaluate conditions like multiple myeloma.
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  Surgery: After all the pre-transplant tests, the transplant procedure is performed.

Recovery After Bone Marrow Transplant

The recovery time after a bone marrow transplant varies depending on factors like the donor's match, the patient's initial condition, and the type of transplant. Typically, it takes 10 to 30 days for the newly transplanted cells to start producing healthy blood cells. Recovery depends on the following factors:

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  The Initial health of the bone marrow
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  The Compatibility of donor cells
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  Type of transplant procedure
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  Any pre-existing chemotherapy or radiation therapy

Side Effects and Complications

While bone marrow transplant is a vital procedure for restoring immunity, there are potential side effects and complications to be aware of, including:

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  Headaches
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  Fever
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  Body aches
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  Vomiting or diarrhea
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  Mild infections

Though not all patients will experience these complications, it's essential to be aware of them.

Bone Marrow Transplant Cost in India

India offers world-class bone marrow transplant services at a fraction of the cost compared to other countries. The cost of bone marrow transplant varies depending on the type of procedure, hospital, and the patient's specific needs. However, treatment in India is significantly more affordable than in Western countries. Universelle Medicaid connects patients with top hospitals and doctors offering advanced facilities at cost-effective prices.

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  Cost Starts From: $16500
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  Hospital Stay: 3-4 Weeks

Important Notes

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  Prices are subject to change without notice.
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  These are indicative prices and may vary depending on the patient's condition at the time of admission.
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  A final estimate will be provided upon admission.

For more details or to schedule your bone marrow transplant in India, contact Universelle Medicaid. We ensure quality care at affordable rates for your health and recovery.