Advanced bone marrow treatment in Abu Dhabi gives new hope to child with leukemia

Abu Dhabi: Yas Clinic – Khalifa City, in partnership with Abu Dhabi Stem Cells Centre (ADSCC), has successfully provided advanced bone marrow transplant care to a young child battling a rare and aggressive form of leukemia, offering renewed hope to the patient and family. The case highlights the UAE’s growing capabilities in specialised paediatric healthcare and complex medical treatments. Challenging diagnosis and treatment Gaith, a two-year-and-ten-month-old child, was diagnosed with infantile B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (B-ALL), a rare condition requiring intensive and specialised treatment due to a high-risk genetic mutation. With no matched sibling donor available, the medical team performed an initial bone marrow transplant using a half-matched donor from within the family. The procedure resulted in remission, with the patient remaining leukemia-free for nearly a year. Relapse and second transplant Subsequent monitoring revealed a relapse despite stable clinical condition, prompting the team to administer further chemotherapy to regain control of the disease. A second bone marrow transplant was then carried out, this time using another family donor, reflecting the complexity and precision of the treatment strategy. Advanced care and recovery Dr Mansi Sachdev, Paediatric Haematologist and Bone Marrow Transplant Specialist at Yas Clinic, said the patient’s journey demonstrates both the challenges and potential of advanced transplant care. “Through innovative treatment strategies and continuous monitoring, we were able to proceed with a second transplant. Today, the child is recovering well, and the progress gives us genuine hope,” she said. The patient has now been discharged and is showing encouraging signs of recovery during the early post-transplant phase. Human-centred healthcare Officials highlighted the importance of combining medical innovation with compassionate care, noting the vital role of family support throughout the treatment process. Dr Maysoon Al Karam, Chief Medical Officer at Yas Clinic, said the case reflects a holistic approach to healthcare that supports both patients and their families. “This case represents the essence of advanced healthcare, combining clinical excellence, innovation and compassion,” she said. Growing centre of excellence The successful treatment underscores Yas Clinic’s role as a centre of excellence in paediatric haematology and bone marrow transplantation, supported by multidisciplinary expertise and advanced technologies. Healthcare leaders said the case reflects the UAE’s broader commitment to delivering world-class medical care and improving patient outcomes through innovation and specialised treatment approaches. The outcome offers renewed optimism for families facing similar medical challenges and highlights the continued advancement of healthcare services in the country.