Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML) Treatment in India
The cost of Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML) treatment in India ranges from USD 7,000 to 25,000, making it significantly more cost-effective compared to treatment in the USA or Europe, without compromising on quality. Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML) is an aggressive form of blood cancer that requires immediate and expert care. India has become a preferred destination for AML treatment, offering advanced therapies at affordable prices. Under the care of top oncologists like Dr. Ankur Bahl, patients receive world-class treatment including chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and bone marrow transplant.
What is Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML)?
Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML) is a fast-growing form of blood and bone marrow cancer. It affects myeloid cells, which are responsible for producing red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. If untreated, AML can rapidly spread to other organs such as the liver, spleen, lymph nodes, and brain.
Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML) is also referred to as acute myeloblastic leukemia, acute non-lymphocytic leukemia, and acute granulocytic leukemia. Prompt diagnosis and treatment are critical due to its aggressive nature.
Why Choose India for Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML) Treatment?
India offers high-quality treatment for AML at a fraction of the cost in Western countries. Leading hospitals are equipped with advanced diagnostic labs, experienced oncologists, and supportive international patient services. Treatments in India are personalized based on AML subtypes and patient needs, with access to modern therapies such as targeted drugs, bone marrow transplants, and immunotherapy.
Who is one of the best the Specialist in Blood Cancer Treatment in India?
Dr. Ankur Bahl is a leading and one of the best oncologist in India with extensive experience in treating blood cancers like AML. Affiliated with Fortis Memorial Research Institute, Gurgaon, Dr. Bahl is known for his expertise in chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and bone marrow transplantation. His patient-focused approach, combined with the use of cutting-edge technology, makes him one of the most trusted names for AML care in India.
What are the Diagnosis and Initial Evaluation?
| Test | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Complete Blood Count (CBC) | Detects anemia, leukocytosis, thrombocytopenia |
| Peripheral Blood Smear | Blasts confirmation |
| Bone Marrow Aspiration + Biopsy | Confirms diagnosis, % of blasts |
| Flow Cytometry | Immunophenotyping of leukemia cells |
| Cytogenetics (Karyotyping) | Risk stratification (e.g., t(8;21), inv(16), etc.) |
| Molecular Testing | FLT3, NPM1, IDH1/2, CEBPA mutations |
| LDH, uric acid, renal/liver function | Baseline and tumor lysis monitoring |
| HLA Typing | For stem cell transplant planning |
Risk Stratification
| Category | Cytogenetic/Mutation Profile |
|---|---|
| Favorable Risk | t(8;21), inv(16), NPM1 mutation (without FLT3) |
| Intermediate | Normal karyotype, +8, t(9;11) |
| Poor Risk | Monosomy 7, complex karyotype, FLT3-ITD high, TP53 mutation |
What are the Treatment Options for Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML) in India?
AML treatment in India involves two main phases:
- Remission Induction Therapy: This is the initial phase where high-dose chemotherapy and targeted therapy are used to destroy as many leukemia cells as possible.
- Consolidation Therapy: Also known as post-remission therapy, this phase focuses on eliminating any remaining leukemia cells to prevent relapse.
What are the Therapies Used in AML Treatment?
There are various types of therapies in use for Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML) treatment:
A. Induction Therapy
Goal: Achieve complete remission (CR)
| Regimen | Drugs | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| 7+3 | Cytarabine (7 days) + Daunorubicin/Idarubicin (3 days) | 28–35 days (in-patient) |
| FLAG-IDA | For high-risk/refractory AML: Fludarabine, Ara-C, G-CSF, Idarubicin | High-risk/refractory cases |
Patients are hospitalized for ~4 weeks due to high infection risk during marrow aplasia.
B. Consolidation Therapy
Goal: Prevent relapse in patients who achieve remission.
| Options | Who is Eligible |
|---|---|
| High-dose Cytarabine (HiDAC) | Standard in favorable-risk, younger patients |
| Allogeneic Stem Cell Transplant (Allo-BMT) | Intermediate/poor risk, or relapsed cases |
C. Targeted Therapy (if mutation present)
| Mutation | Targeted Drug | Use |
|---|---|---|
| FLT3 | Midostaurin, Gilteritinib | With chemo / relapsed AML |
| IDH1/IDH2 | Ivosidenib / Enasidenib | Oral therapy in mutation+ cases |
| BCL2 Overexpression | Venetoclax + Azacitidine | Elderly/unfit AML |
D. Low-Intensity Therapy (Unfit / Elderly Patients)
| Regimen | Description |
|---|---|
| Azacitidine or Decitabine | Hypomethylating agents given outpatient |
| Venetoclax-based combinations | For those unable to tolerate full-dose chemo |
Bone Marrow Transplant (Allogeneic HSCT)
- Indicated for:
- High-risk AML in 1st CR
- Relapsed AML
- Favorable-risk relapsing patients
- Donor Types in India:
- HLA-matched sibling
- Matched unrelated donor (MUD)
- Haploidentical donor
What is the Success Rates and Patient Outcomes for Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML) ?
India boasts a high success rate of up to 99% in AML remission with prompt and proper treatment. Younger patients and those without pre-existing conditions have higher chances of long-term survival. Survival rates are continuously improving with advancements in personalized therapies and transplant procedures. Supportive care, early intervention, and strict follow-ups contribute to excellent patient outcomes.
What are the International Patient Support and Recovery Services for Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML) Treatment in India?
India’s hospitals provide comprehensive care for international patients through:
- Dedicated patient managers
- 24/7 language interpretation
- Assistance with visas and medical documents
- Affordable accommodation nearby hospitals
- Post-treatment rehabilitation and follow-ups
Organizations like Healzone and HBG Medical Assistance streamline the entire medical travel journey, ensuring comfort, transparency, and expert care.
Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML) Treatment Cost Comparison: India vs. Turkey vs. USA
India offers high-quality AML treatment at a fraction of Western costs, with access to advanced chemotherapy, bone marrow transplant, and targeted therapies at world-class hospitals.
| Treatment Type | India (USD) | Turkey (USD) | USA (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Induction Chemotherapy (7+3 / FLAG-IDA) | $700 – $1,500 | $1,000 – $2,000 | $10,000 – $20,000 |
| Consolidation Therapy (HiDAC – 1 to 3 cycles) | $1,500 – $3,500 | $4,000 – $6,000 | $15,000 – $30,000 |
| Allogeneic Bone Marrow Transplant (Allo-BMT) | $25,000 – $35,000 | $40,000 – $50,000 | $4,50,000 |
| Targeted Therapy (FLT3, IDH1/2 Inhibitors, per month) | $1,200 – $2,500 | $2,000 – $3,000 | $10,000 – $20,000 |
| Hypomethylating Agents (Azacitidine, Decitabine) | $700 – $1,500 | $1,500 – $3,000 | $8,000 – $12,000 |
| Supportive Care (Inpatient stay, transfusions) | $2,000 – $4,000 | $4,000 – $6,000 | $20,000 – $50,000 |
| MRD Monitoring / Flow Cytometry (per test) | $150 – $300 | $300 – $500 | $1,000 – $2,000 |
| HLA Typing + Donor Search | $500 – $1,000 | $1,000 – $2,000 | $2,500 – $5,000 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Common symptoms include fever, fatigue, shortness of breath, bleeding, unusual bruising, bone pain, and frequent infections.
Yes, with early diagnosis and proper treatment, many patients go into long-term remission or are cured, especially with stem cell transplants.
Diagnosis includes blood tests (CBC, blood smear), bone marrow biopsy, spinal tap, genetic testing (PCR, FISH), and imaging scans.
India offers a 95–99% remission rate in patients who respond well to induction therapy and post-remission care.
Dr. Ankur Bahl is among the top oncologists in India specializing in blood cancer and AML treatment.