Treatment for Acute Leukaemia in India

Acute leukemia is characterized by the rapid proliferation of abnormal blood cells, which can quickly lead to serious health issues. Therefore, prompt and aggressive treatment is crucial to combat this potentially fatal disease.

Diagnosing Acute Leukaemia

Accurate diagnosis is essential for developing an effective treatment plan. Several tests and procedures are involved:

• Blood Tests: These tests measure the levels of white blood cells, red blood cells, and platelets. They can also detect the presence of blast cells, which are immature cells typically found in the bone marrow.

Bone Marrow Biopsy and Test

A sample of bone marrow is extracted, usually from the breastbone or hip bone, using a needle. This sample is then analyzed in a lab to check for leukemia cells. The analysis includes classifying the blood cells by their shape, size, and genetic characteristics, helping to determine if the leukaemia originated from B lymphocytes or T lymphocytes.

• Imaging Tests: CT scans, ultrasounds, and X-rays help determine if leukaemia cells have spread to other parts of the body, such as the brain or spinal cord.
• Spinal Fluid Test: This test involves collecting a sample of spinal fluid to check for the presence of leukemia cells in the central nervous system.

Treatment Phases for Acute Myeloid Leukaemia

Treatment for acute myeloid leukaemia (AML) typically progresses through several phases:

• Induction Therapy: The goal is to eradicate as many leukaemia cells as possible from the blood and bone marrow while restoring normal blood cell production.
• Consolidation Therapy: This phase aims to destroy any remaining leukemia cells in the body, reducing the risk of relapse.
• Maintenance Therapy: This involves administering lower doses of treatment over a prolonged period to prevent the recurrence of leukaemia.

Treatments for Acute Leukaemia

• Chemotherapy: A cornerstone treatment involving a combination of drugs to kill cancer cells. It is commonly used during induction therapy and may also be part of consolidation and maintenance therapies.
• Targeted Therapy: This treatment uses drugs to target specific abnormalities in cancer cells, thereby destroying them. It can be used alone or in combination with chemotherapy.
• Radiation Therapy: High-powered beams, such as X-rays and protons, are used to kill cancer cells. Radiation therapy is particularly recommended if leukaemia has spread to the central nervous system.
• Bone Marrow Transplant: Also known as a stem cell transplant, this procedure replaces diseased bone marrow with healthy bone marrow. It helps restore the patient’s ability to produce healthy blood cells.

In India, these advanced treatments for acute leukemia are accessible, providing patients with comprehensive care aimed at achieving remission and maintaining long-term health.

Acute Leukaemia Treatment cost in India are as follow