Patient Testimonial for Bone Marrow Transplant

Multiple Myeloma is a type of blood cancer that affects plasma cells in the bone marrow, where blood cells are produced. The exact cause is unknown, but it involves genetic mutations that lead to the uncontrolled growth of abnormal plasma cells. These cells can accumulate in the bone marrow and other parts of the body, leading to various symptoms such as bone pain, frequent infections, fatigue, anemia, and high levels of calcium in the blood. Diagnosis typically involves blood tests, imaging studies like X-rays or MRIs, and a bone marrow biopsy to confirm the presence of myeloma cells. Treatment options vary depending on the stage and aggressiveness of the disease but often include chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy to control the growth of cancer cells and manage symptoms.

Bone Marrow Transplantation, also known as a stem cell transplant, is a treatment option for multiple myeloma that aims to replace damaged or destroyed bone marrow with healthy stem cells. This procedure is usually considered after initial treatments like chemotherapy have reduced the number of cancer cells. There are two main types of transplants: autologous, where the patient’s own stem cells are used, and allogeneic, where stem cells from a donor are used. In an autologous transplant, stem cells are collected from the patient before high-dose chemotherapy is administered to destroy remaining cancer cells. The collected stem cells are then infused back into the patient to help rebuild the bone marrow. This treatment can help extend remission periods and improve overall outcomes for patients with multiple myeloma.

Mr. Ch Sambasiva Rao from Hyderabad successfully underwent Bone Marrow Transplantation for Multiple Myeloma at Yashoda Hospitals, Hyderabad, under the supervision of Dr. Ganesh Jaishetwar, Sr. Consultant Hematologist, Hemato-Oncologist & Bone Marrow Transplant Physician.