Ahmedabad: Apollo Ccncer Centre (ACC), Ahmedabad, has achieved a significant medical milestone by successfully performing Chimeric Antigen Receptor T cell (CAR-T) therapy on a female patient with complex co-morbid conditions and relapsed acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (Ph-positive). This is the first time such a procedure has been conducted in the state of Gujarat.

The 48-year-old Ms Sakina Banu (name changed on request), who had previously undergone an allogenic bone marrow transplant in New Delhi in July last year, faced numerous complications post-transplant, including acute gut graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) and chronic liver parenchymal disease. In January, she experienced a medullary disease relapse and sought further evaluation and management at ACC, Ahmedabad.

Following a thorough evaluation, the patient achieved molecular remission post-immunotherapy and was subsequently planned for CAR-T cell therapy. She underwent lymphocyte apheresis followed by CAR-T cell infusion on May 7. The therapy was overseen by Dr. Velu Nair, Head – Medical Services & Chief Consultant – Hemat-Oncology, Apollo Cancer Centre, Ahmedabad.

Speaking about the case, Dr. Nair said, “Administering CAR-T cell therapy in this case was particularly challenging due to the patient’s existing co-morbidity, which included chronic liver disease and the complications from a failed bone marrow transplant. This is one of the first cases of its kind in the state and it marks a significant advancement in the treatment of relapsed acute lymphoblastic leukaemia.”

Post CAR-T cell therapy, the patient developed Grade I cytokine release syndrome, which was managed conservatively. She is currently a febrile and hemodynamically stable.

“The patient’s condition is stable, and she will need to undergo regular checks to monitor her progress,” Dr. Nair added.

Mr. Neeraj Lal, COO and Unit Head, Apollo Cancer Centre, Gujarat Region, said, “This successful CAR-T cell therapy procedure underscores our commitment to providing cutting-edge treatments and highlights our ability to handle complex medical cases. We are proud of our team for its dedication and expertise in bringing such advanced care to patients.”

Ms Sakina Banu said, “I always believe that every problem has a solution and in my case, I got the right treatment at Apollo Cancer Centre,” she smiles. “This treatment has given me a second lease of life, and I’m incredibly grateful to the team at ACC for their expertise and unfaltering support.”

This remarkable achievement stands as a beacon of hope for countless individuals battling aggressive cancers worldwide. It underscores the critical importance of cutting-edge research, innovative therapies, and the unwavering commitment of healthcare professionals.

Ms. Banu’s triumph of winning over cancer is more than a medical breakthrough, it is also a testament to the resilience of the human spirit. Her journey serves as a reminder that with determination, compassion, and expertise, even the most formidable adversaries can be conquered.

The historic achievement reinforces Apollo Cancer Centre, Ahmedabad’s’ position at the forefront of medical innovation, not just in Gujarat but across the nation. With a steadfast commitment to improving patient care and outcomes, Apollo Cancer Centre, Ahmedabad, continues to pave the way for advanced medical treatments and procedures.

#WinningOverCancer

About Apollo Cancer Centre – https://apollocancercentres.com/

THE CANCER CARE LEGACY: BREATHING HOPE INTO LIVES FOR OVER 30 YEARS

Cancer care today means 360-degree comprehensive care, which requires commitment, expertise, and an indomitable spirit from cancer specialists.

Apollo Cancer Centre has a network across India with over 325 oncologists to oversee the delivery of high-end precision Oncology Therapy. Our oncologists deliver world-class cancer care following an organ-based practice under competent Cancer Management Teams. This helps us in delivering exemplary treatment to the patient in an environment that has consistently delivered an international standard of clinical outcomes.

Today, people from 147 countries come to India for cancer treatment at Apollo Cancer Centre. With the first and only Pencil Beam Proton Therapy Centre in South Asia & Middle East, Apollo Cancer Centre.

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