Overview of Sickle Cell Anemia
A person with sickle cell anemia (SCA) has aberrant hemoglobin (hemoglobin S), a protein that is responsible for distributing oxygen throughout the body. Because of their disc shape and flexibility, normal red blood cells (RBC) may pass through arteries and tiny vessels with ease. Unusual red blood cells with a sickle or crescent form are seen in people with sickle cell anemia. The blood flow into specific areas is restricted by these cells because they are stiff and difficult to bend or move via blood vessels. Additionally, their longevity is only 15–20 days, far lower than the 120 days that RBCs typically live.
As of right now, stem cell therapy or bone marrow transplant are the only treatments for sickle cell anemia. Nonetheless, medical professionals usually employ blood transfusions, antibiotics, and other drugs to cure infections and lessen their symptoms and related consequences.
Types of Sickle Cell Anemia Disease
Sickle cell disease can be categorized into the following kinds based on this:
- Haemoglobin SC
- Haemoglobin SD
- Haemoglobin SE
- Haemoglobin SS
- Haemoglobin SB0 thalassemia.
- Haemoglobin SB+ thalassemia.
Diagnosis And Treatment of Sickle Cell Anemia
Sickle cell anemia can be diagnosed in several ways:
- Blood Films: A microscope is used to look at blood samples to identify any abnormally constricted red blood cells.
- Sickle Solubility Tests: They identify if hemoglobin S is present in the blood.
- Diagnosing abnormal hemoglobin levels in babies by routine blood testing is known as newborn screening.
- Haemoglobin electrophoresis is a confirmatory test used to distinguish HbS from other hemoglobin types.
- Prenatal Testing: During pregnancy, tests like amniocentesis and chorionic villus sampling are performed to find the sickle cell gene in amniotic fluid.
- Clinical Assessment: A thorough review of the patient’s past medical history and symptoms, such as pain, anemia, enlarged spleen, issues with growth, infections, ulcers, and heart issues.
- Blood counts: They detect anomalies related to sickle cell disease and evaluate hemoglobin levels.
Sickle Cell Anemia Treatment
There are various methods for treating sickle cell anemia:
- Bone Marrow Transplant/ Sten cell therapy: This bone marrow transplant procedure uses a healthy, genetically matched donor, usually a sibling, and has the potential to treat sickle cell disease. The healthy bone marrow is transferred to replace the damaged bone marrow. However only about 18% of patients find suitable donors.
- Medication: Your doctor may recommended medication such as Hydroxyurea, Crizanlizumab, L-glutamine, and Crizanlizumab to manage sickle cell anemia.
Sickle Cell Anemia Treatment Cost In India
The average Sickle Cell Anemia Treatment Cost in India starts from INR 14,13,000 (USD 17,000) and the treatment can also depend upon the treatment recommended according to the patient’s condition.
A bone marrow transplant is the only reliable method of treating sickle cell anemia. Depending on the procedure, a bone marrow transplant in India might cost anywhere from 13,000 to 15,000 USD. With up to 90% success rates, bone marrow transplantation has significantly improved sickle cell anemia treatment in India. The success rate is 95% if the donor is an HLA-identical sibling. This method is the first choice for treating sickle cell anemia because it not only preserves lives but also eases the pain and complications associated with the blood condition.
Factors That Can Impact Sickle Cell Anemia Treatment Cost in India
- Need for post-operative care.
- The type of treatment determines how the package varies.
- Medical expertise and background in the field.
- The state of the patient: The state of the patient and whether more modalities are needed to provide a full course of treatment.
- Sickle cell anemia treatment cost in India can vary based on how long you remain in the hospital and how long you stay there.
How Can BMT Clinic Help In Your Treatment Search?
BMT is an esteemed organization for patients seeking physicians, medical facilities, and specialized care. We’ll identify the best medical options for you. Our staff will provide you with a list of licensed, respectable, and trustworthy physicians and hospitals based on your medical issues. We also provide a treatment plan that is affordable for you. In addition, we help patients with a variety of other matters, such as obtaining medical visas and travel authorization.
