What is Therapy for Aplastic Anaemia and Its Cost?

Aplastic Anaemia Therapy in India – Costs & Treatment Options Explained

Imagine a second chance at life, even when the odds are stacked against you. This was recently achieved by doctors in Kolkata’s NRS Medical College and Hospital, who performed a haploidentical (half-matched) bone marrow transplant for severe aplastic anaemia. Despite major hurdles, such as blood group mismatches, this groundbreaking procedure offers a lifeline and has the potential to be a game-changer.

What are the Therapies and Treatment Procedures for Aplastic Anaemia?

Aplastic anaemia is a rare but serious condition in which the bone marrow fails to produce enough new blood cells. Treatment selection is based on both severity and overall health; depending on these, the most common options include medications, blood transfusions, or bone marrow transplantation.

1. Blood Transfusions : Blood transfusions are often the first step in treating aplastic anaemia. This helps increase red blood cells and platelets, thereby easing symptoms such as tiredness and bleeding. While not a cure, it provides short-term relief and improves quality of life.
2. Bone Marrow Transplant : This treatment offers a potential cure, particularly for younger patients who have a matching donor, often a sibling. The healthy stem cells from the donor help rebuild the patient's bone marrow. Although it is a lengthy and intricate process, it can be life-saving.
3. ATG Therapy : Anti-thymocyte globulin (ATG) is used when a transplant isn't possible. It lowers the immune system’s attack on the bone marrow and helps it recover to make new blood cells. The cost for ATG therapy may differ depending on hospital protocols and drug pricing.

What is the Cost of the Therapies for Aplastic Anaemia?

Though the cost of therapies and treatment can vary with city and the hospital you choose, here is an estimated price range:

^{*No nationally standardized cost exists for blood transfusion fees; charges vary by facility type, location, and components transfused.}

How is Aplastic Anaemia Diagnosed?

Doctors primarily diagnose aplastic anaemia through blood tests and a bone marrow biopsy. Blood tests typically reveal low levels of red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. To confirm the diagnosis, a bone marrow biopsy is essential. This procedure involves taking a small sample of bone marrow, usually from the hipbone, for examination under a microscope.

In aplastic anaemia, the bone marrow produces fewer blood cells than it normally does. Further tests may be conducted later to determine the underlying cause.

How Can You Live Well with Aplastic Anaemia?

1. Self-Care Tips : When living with aplastic anaemia, rest when you feel tired, as fatigue and breathlessness are common. Due to a low platelet count, avoid contact sports and activities that could cause injury. Protect yourself from germs by washing your hands frequently and being in a healthy environment. Seek medical attention immediately for any signs of infection.
2. Coping and Support : Learn about your condition to help with treatment decisions and ask your healthcare team questions. Do not hesitate to express concerns to your doctors. Seek support from family, friends, or organisations that offer peer support. Prioritise good nutrition and sleep to aid blood production.

Treatment outcomes for aplastic anaemia vary based on disease severity, patient age, donor match, and therapy type. Stemcell transplantation generally offers the highest chance of cure when a matched donor is available, while response rates to immunosuppressive therapy vary. Furthermore, even if one cannot afford a BMT or ATG, there is still hope. Medications such as Danazol and immunosuppressive agents like cyclosporine may be used in selected patients when standard therapies are not feasible, but response rates vary and are not fixed.