UAE: first bone marrow transplant for a child with thalassemia

Ahmad, the three-year-old patient, had suffered from thalassaemia major since birth and travelled to the United Arab Emirates from Iraq to receive treatment.

A disease more common in children

Thalassaemia is a genetic defect in the composition of haemoglobin and one of the most common blood disorders in children, sometimes requiring blood transfusions.

“Thalassaemia major is the most severe form of thalassaemia in children. Bone marrow transplantation is the only curative treatment option for this disease. We are happy that we have been able to successfully perform this transplant,” Dr Zainul Aabideen, head of paediatric haematology and consultant oncologist at Burjeel Medical City, Abu Dhabi, was quoted in Khaleej Times.

Ahmad’s parents both had thalassaemia, which means that there was a 25% chance that their child would be born with thalassaemia major. While the first child had no problems, little Ahmad needed monthly blood transfusions.

A successful operation

“The operation was a success. I hope that Ahmed’s health will improve in the next stages of treatment. I advise everyone to get tested for thalassemia before marriage so that they do not suffer from the same problems we faced,” Ahmad’s mother told Khaleej Times.

Dr Mansi Sachdev, consultant in paediatric haematology, oncology and bone marrow, pointed out that if thalassaemia major patients do not receive timely blood transfusion, they suffer from weakness, decreased appetite and shortness of breath, which can lead to death. Dr Mansi pointed out that fortunately they were able to find a fully matching donor in his family, namely his 17-year-old sister.

“We were able to bring them from Iraq and he underwent a bone marrow transplant. His transplant was successful and he is doing very well. He is now thalassaemia free and will no longer need monthly blood transfusions and will not suffer from any thalassaemia related complications in the future.”