American Oncology Institute Hematology Docs Save Toddler with Griscelli Syndrome

Hyderabad: A significant milestone was achieved at American Oncology Institute (AOI), Citizens Specialty Hospital in Hyderabad, where a 14-month-old suffering from Griscelli Syndrome (GS) underwent a successful Bone Marrow Transplant (BMT). Led by Dr. C.S. Ranjith Kumar, Consultant Pediatric Hemato Oncologist, this achievement stands as a testament to AOI’s expertise in handling complex pediatric cases.

Baby Raghav (name changed) was grappling with recurrent infections stemming from immune system irregularities, alongside distinctive symptoms like hypopigmented skin and a silvery-gray sheen of the hair. Griscelli Syndrome, an exceptionally rare condition with a prevalence of fewer than 1 per million, has only seen 150 reported cases globally, with a mere 10 cases documented in India. Typically surfacing in infancy or early childhood between 4 months and 7 years, the syndrome poses considerable challenges, especially in such young patients.

The successful treatment involved a stem cell transplantation, a complex procedure given the patient's tender age. With over 70 cases performed in the last 2 years, including 25+ pediatric bone marrow transplants, American Oncology Institute, under the expertise of Dr. Ranjith and his team executed an Allogenic Bone Marrow Transplant with precision. Presently, at 4 years old and over 24 months post-BMT, Baby Raghav is thriving, having achieved a complete recovery from recurrent infections with 100 percent donor cells.

Dr Prabhakar P, Regional Chief Operating Officer, American Oncology Institute (AOI), said, “The number of patients seeking BMT in India has increased over the last five years. Pediatric BMT outcomes are also improving. Highly experienced pediatric Hemato Oncologist are needed to improve outcomes.

Supported with extensive training, experience, and state-of-the-art technology, AOI has an incredible team of highly skilled specialists to deal with complicated pediatric BMT cases. AOI is committed to offering best-in-class clinical expertise, technological superiority, and service excellence for our patients in South Asia. AOI stands at the forefront of treatment excellence offering precision cancer care for all types of cancers across all age groups.”

Explaining the serious condition of the patient, Dr C.S. Ranjith Kumar, Consultant Pediatric Hemato Oncologist, AOI said, “Transplant-related mortality remains the major challenge in children with primary immune deficiency disorders undergoing BMT. The treating pediatrician should detect these symptoms early for successful outcomes. India is making fast strides in BMT for PID, and in future we should be able to diagnose and transplant early and save more lives with better quality of life.”