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Iraqi Patient Review: Successful Sickle Cell Anemia Treatment in India

Murtadha Khaleel, a 35-year-old father from Iraq, faced an unimaginable challenge when his 4-year-old son, Melak, was diagnosed with sickle cell disease. This condition led to severe complications, including chronic pain from bone and joint damage, ulcers, and other debilitating symptoms. The intense episodes of pain that Melak endured were heart-wrenching for Khaleel, who was determined to find a cure for his son.

In his quest for a solution, Khaleel scoured the internet for treatment options. During his search, he discovered our India Organ Transplant website and decided to share Melak's medical condition through our query form. Within hours, he was connected with our dedicated case manager, who promptly processed Melak's medical reports. These reports were then reviewed by Dr. Vikas Dua, a leading hematologist with extensive experience in treating sickle cell disease.

Dr. Vikas Dua’s expert opinion suggested a bone marrow transplant as the best course of action. This procedure, which involves replacing diseased bone marrow with healthy bone marrow from a donor, offered hope for a potential cure. Fortuitously, Melak's older brother was found to be a suitable donor as he did not carry the sickle cell trait.

With renewed hope, Khaleel made the decision to travel to India for the bone marrow transplant. Upon their arrival, they were warmly welcomed by our medical team. The process began with thorough evaluations and tests for both Melak and his brother to ensure they were prepared for the transplant.

The bone marrow transplant procedure involved several stages. First, Melak underwent conditioning therapy to prepare his body for the new bone marrow. This included chemotherapy and radiation to eradicate the diseased bone marrow and suppress his immune system to prevent rejection of the donor marrow.

Meanwhile, Melak's brother underwent a bone marrow harvest. Under general anesthesia, doctors used a needle to extract liquid marrow from his pelvic bones. The harvested marrow was then processed to concentrate the healthy stem cells, which would be transplanted into Melak.

The day of the transplant was both nerve-wracking and hopeful for Khaleel. Melak was brought to the transplant unit, where the healthy bone marrow cells were infused into his bloodstream through a central line. These cells traveled to Melak's bone marrow spaces and began the process of engraftment, where they started to produce new, healthy blood cells.

The weeks following the transplant were critical. Melak was closely monitored in a sterile environment to protect him from infections while his new immune system developed. The medical team provided comprehensive care, managing potential side effects and ensuring Melak's body accepted the new bone marrow.

The transplant was successful, and after a period of recovery, Melak's health began to improve. His episodes of intense pain subsided, and his energy levels increased. Khaleel watched with relief and joy as his son regained his vitality.

After several weeks of post-transplant care and monitoring, Khaleel and his sons were able to return to Iraq. The journey had been arduous, but the outcome was nothing short of miraculous. Melak was given a new lease on life, free from the severe complications of sickle cell disease.

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