Currently, the cost of a bone marrow transplant in India is quite favorable, thanks to advancements in medical science, cutting-edge technology, and skilled medical professionals. 

Bone marrow, a soft and spongy tissue found primarily in the thigh and hip bones, is responsible for producing blood cells. A bone marrow transplant (BMT) involves replacing damaged or destroyed bone marrow with healthy tissue. Damage can result from infections, diseases, or treatments like chemotherapy.

This procedure, also known as a stem cell transplant, entails harvesting cells from bone marrow and transplanting them into the patient or another recipient.

Bone marrow contains immature cells, including red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. Red blood cells (RBCs) transport oxygen and nutrients throughout the body. White blood cells (WBCs) provide immunity by fighting infections. Platelets are crucial for clot formation, preventing excessive bleeding.

Candidates for Bone Marrow Transplant

Doctors recommend bone marrow transplants when a patient’s bone marrow fails to function properly due to various chronic diseases. Conditions warranting a bone marrow transplant include:

• Blood diseases like aplastic anemia, sickle cell anemia, or thalassemia
• Infections caused by immune deficiencies
• Blood cancers affecting the bone marrow, such as lymphoma, leukemia, or multiple myeloma
• Solid tumors
• Inherited disorders like congenital neutropenia, which cause recurrent infections
• Amyloidosis
• Myelofibrosis
• Bone marrow failure
• Effects of chemotherapy or radiation therapy

Types of Bone Marrow Transplants

There are two main types of bone marrow transplants, chosen based on the patient’s needs and condition.

Allogeneic Transplant

In this procedure, the patient’s bone marrow is replaced with that from a donor who has a partial genetic match. Donors can be family members or unrelated individuals who match well enough. Before the transplant, compatibility tests ensure the donor is a suitable match.

Autologous Transplant

Here, the patient’s own stem cells are harvested and stored before they undergo high-dose chemotherapy or radiation therapy. After treatment, these stem cells are reintroduced to the patient’s body to regenerate healthy blood cells. This method is also called a rescue transplant.

Umbilical Cord Blood Transplant

This allogeneic transplant involves using stem cells collected from a newborn’s umbilical cord. These cells are stored for future use. Because they are less mature, they require a less perfect match but take longer to recover.

Bone Marrow Transplant Process

Before surgery, the patient undergoes extensive evaluations:

• General fitness exam: Includes cancer screening and a physical examination.
• Biopsy: Assesses bone marrow function and disease involvement.
• Blood tests: Check for various factors, including HIV and genetic compatibility.
• Tissue typing: For allogeneic transplants, to match donor and recipient tissues.
• Imaging tests: Such as MRI, PET scan, or CT scan to detect organ abnormalities.
• Psychological evaluation: Assesses stress and financial concerns.
• Skeletal survey: Multiple X-rays, especially for multiple myeloma cases.

Recovery Period

The recovery process, which takes 10 to 30 days, is closely monitored to ensure healthy blood cell production. The success of the transplant depends on factors like the condition of the bone marrow, donor match, and treatment specifics.

Potential Side Effects and Complications

While complications are not guaranteed, awareness of possible side effects is important. These can include:

• Headache
• Fever
• Body pain
• Vomiting or diarrhea
• Mild infections

Overall, the bone marrow transplant procedure in India is well-supported by advanced medical infrastructure and experienced healthcare providers, ensuring a high standard of care for patients.

Bone Marrow Transplant cost in India are as follow