SKIMS performs first ever stem cell transplant in Kashmir

SRINAGAR — The Department of Clinical Haematology at SKIMS Soura has, for the first time in the history of medical science in Jammu & Kashmir, performed a matched sibling Allogeneic Stem Cell/Bone Marrow Transplant for a patient suffering from severe Aplastic Anemia.

While explaining the process, a senior official at SKIMS said that the procedure is highly advanced treatment and is done at only two other Government Hospitals in whole of Northern India (AIIMS, New Delhi & PGIMER Chandigarh).

Dr Javid Rasool, Prof. & HOD Clinical Haematology said that “prior to this, our patients had to go outside J&K for the procedure of transplant which would cost them Rs. 20 Lacs to Rs. 50 Lacs depending on the centre. The success of Stem Cell/Bone Marrow Transplant at our Institute will provide new hope to the poor patients of Blood Cancer and other hematological disorders”.

A 16-year-old boy from Ladakh (Class 12th student) came to the Department of Clinical Haematology at SKIMS and was diagnosed with severe Aplastic Anemia. As his marrow stem cells were affected, the only curative treatment option for him was Stem Cell Transplantation. Fortunately, his sister’s bone marrow stem cells were found to be matching. So, patient was taken for Allogenic matched sibling transplant. Presently, patient is doing well and has been discharged in stable condition.

“This will open doors for the poor patients with Blood Cancer and other hematological disorders including immunodeficiency disorders,” he added.

The Department of Clinical Haematology appreciated the Department of Blood Transfusion & Immunohaematology for their support.

Meanwhile, Director SKIMS Prof. A G Ahangar said that the procedure having been undertaken in the institution is of a milestone importance, which was possible through creating the facility of Clinical Haematology in the institute, which conducted the process with the assistance of other departments.

“We are hopeful that the new cell formation in patient will take off smoothly, which will pave the way for us to take the procedure at a larger level to prevent patients from going out of the valley to avail the process facility,” he said.

He complimented the whole Department of Clinical Haematology including faculty members: Dr. Sajad Geelani, Addl. Prof; Dr. Reashma Roshan, Asstt Prof; Dr. Afaq Ahmad Khan, Asstt. Prof. and Senior Residents (both Clinical & Lab. side), Resident staff as well as Paramedical staff of Ward 5P, Technical staff (lab. side) and Office staff of the Clinical Haematology Department.