Multiple Myeloma Treatment
Multiple myeloma treatment typically involves a combination of therapies tailored to the patient’s condition. Chemotherapy is commonly used to kill cancer cells, while targeted therapy focuses on specific molecular pathways involved in cancer growth. Immunotherapy harnesses the immune system to fight cancer, and steroids are often included to reduce inflammation and control symptoms. Stem cell or bone marrow transplants may be recommended for younger patients to replace damaged bone marrow with healthy cells. Radiation therapy targets bone lesions, and bisphosphonates help strengthen bones affected by the disease.
Multiple Myeloma Types
Multiple myeloma is primarily categorized based on its clinical presentation and genetic characteristics. Some of the main types of multiple myeloma are:
- Symptomatic Multiple Myeloma: The most common form, where the disease causes significant symptoms like bone pain, anemia, and kidney issues.
- Asymptomatic (Smoldering) Multiple Myeloma: A pre-myeloma stage with no symptoms, though abnormal cells are present.
- Plasma Cell Leukemia: A rare and aggressive form where plasma cells enter the bloodstream, often leading to rapid disease progression.
- Monoclonal Gammopathy of Undetermined Significance (MGUS): A precursor to myeloma with no symptoms, but may progress to multiple myeloma in some cases.
Multiple Myeloma Treatment Cost in India
The cost of multiple myeloma treatment in India depends on the type of therapy and the hospital. Chemotherapy can cost between ₹30,000 to ₹1 lakh ($400–$1,200) per cycle. Stem cell transplants may range from ₹10 lakh to ₹20 lakh ($12,000–$24,000).
Multiple Myeloma Treatment Success Rate in India
The success rate for multiple myeloma treatment in India varies based on factors like age, disease stage, and response to therapy. With advanced treatments like stem cell transplants, immunotherapy, and targeted therapy, the 5-year survival rate ranges from 50% to 70%, especially for younger patients with early-stage disease.
Multiple Myeloma Recovery Time
Recovery time for multiple myeloma depends on the treatment type and individual response. After chemotherapy and stem cell transplants, patients may require 6 months to a year for recovery and immune system rebuilding.
Best Multiple Myeloma Hospitals in India
There are many multiple myeloma hospitals in India. These hospitals provide treatment for multiple myeloma, including chemotherapy, stem cell transplants, targeted therapies, etc. A list of the best hospitals in India for treating multiple myeloma is given below-
- Medanta – The Medicity, Gurgaon
- Fortis Memorial Research Institute, Gurgaon
- Max Super Speciality Hospital, Saket, New Delhi
- Apollo Hospitals, Greams Road, Chennai
- Narayana Health, Bangalore
- AIIMS (All India Institute of Medical Sciences), New Delhi
- Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital, Mumbai
- Indraprastha Apollo Hospital, New Delhi
- Manipal Hospital, Bangalore
Top Multiple Myeloma Specialist Doctors in India
There are several multiple myeloma specialists in India. These doctors are known for their expertise in diagnosing and treating multiple myeloma with cutting-edge therapies, including stem cell transplants, chemotherapy, and immunotherapy. Find the list of the best multiple myeloma specialists below-
- Dr. Rahul Bhargava – Hematologist, Fortis Memorial Research Institute, Gurgaon
- Dr. Vikas Suri – Oncologist, Max Super Speciality Hospital, Saket, New Delhi
- Dr. Shishir Seth – Hematologist, Indraprastha Apollo Hospital, New Delhi
- Dr. Sandeep Nayak – Oncologist, Fortis La Femme, Bangalore
- Dr. R. K. Mani – Hematologist, Tata Memorial Hospital, Mumbai
- Dr. Anil Kumar – Hematologist, Narayana Health, Bangalore
- Dr. Vivek S. Pandey – Hematologist, Medanta – The Medicity, Gurgaon
- Dr. Nitin Sood – Hematologist, Medanta – The Medicity, Gurgaon
- Dr. Gaurav Kharya – Pediatric Hematologist, Indraprastha Apollo Hospital, New Delhi
- Dr. Prakash N – Hematologist, Sankalp Hematology & BMT Centre, Bangalore