India is one of the most preferred destination for the treatment of Central Nervous System (CNS) cancer with its world-class medical infrastructure, highly experienced medical experts and doctors at the fraction of the costs spent for the same treatment in other countries. Patients receive advanced therapies under the guidance of top specialists in India. CNS cancer treatment in India typically costs between USD 7,500 to 10,000, significantly less than in Western countries.
What Is Central Nervous System (CNS) Cancer and How Does It Affect the Body?
Central Nervous System (CNS) cancer refers to malignant or benign tumors originating in the brain or spinal cord. These tumors interfere with essential neurological functions like movement, speech, vision, cognition, and organ regulation, depending on their location. CNS cancer can affect both children and adults and often requires urgent medical intervention.
What Are the Different Types of CNS Tumors Found in Adults and Children?
Types of CNS Tumors Found in Adults and Children can be explained as:
Primary Tumors:
- Gliomas: Includes astrocytomas, oligodendrogliomas, and glioblastomas
- Ependymomas: Arising from the ependymal cells lining the ventricles
- Medulloblastomas: Aggressive, Very Common in childrens, found in cerebellum of human body
- Meningiomas: Originating from the brain's meninges, usually benign
Metastatic Tumors:
- In it Secondary tumors, spread from cancers in any other parts of human body
Pediatric CNS Tumors:
- AT/RT (Atypical Teratoid/Rhabdoid Tumor)
- Pilocytic Astrocytoma
- Brainstem Gliomas
What Causes Central Nervous System Cancer and Who Is at Risk?
Causes:
- Genetic mutations (IDH1/2, TP53, MGMT methylation)
- Exposure to radiation
- Family history of CNS tumors
- Inherited genetic syndromes (Li-Fraumeni, NF1, Turcot’s syndrome)
Risk Groups:
- Children under age 3 (especially for AT/RT)
- Adults aged 45+
- Patients with compromised immune systems
What Are the Common Symptoms and Early Signs of CNS Cancer?
- Persistent headaches
- Seizures
- Vision or hearing loss
- Balance and coordination issues
- Nausea and vomiting
- Personality or cognitive changes
- Limb weakness or numbness
How Is Central Nervous System Cancer Diagnosed Accurately?
- Neurological Exam: Reflexes, muscle strength, eye movement
- MRI with Contrast: Most effective imaging for brain tumors
- CT Scan: Often used in emergencies
- Biopsy: To confirm tumor type and grade
- Molecular Testing: In this, mutations like IDH1/2 & MGMT methylation for treatment planning is identified.
What Treatment Options Are Available for CNS Cancer Under Dr. Ankur Bahl?
Dr. Ankur Bahl offers a multimodal, personalized approach to CNS cancer care:
1. Surgery
- Craniotomy or awake craniotomy
- Endoscopic removal for minimal invasiveness
- Maximal safe resection of tumors
2. Radiation Therapy
- IMRT, IGRT, or VMAT for targeted therapy
- SRS (Stereotactic Radiosurgery) for small, difficult tumors
3. Chemotherapy
- Temozolomide (TMZ)
- PCV (Procarbazine, CCNU, Vincristine)
- Used alone or in combination with radiation
4. Targeted Therapy and Immunotherapy
- Bevacizumab for recurrent GBM
- Tumor-Treating Fields (TTF)
- Clinical trials (checkpoint inhibitors, IDH inhibitors)
5. Pediatric Protocols
- Vincristine, carboplatin-based regimens for children
- Avoiding radiation in young children when possible
Why Should You Choose Dr. Ankur Bahl for CNS Cancer Treatment in India?
Dr. Ankur Bahl is one of India’s top neuro-oncologists known for his expertise in treating complex brain and spine tumors. His patient-first philosophy, cutting-edge therapies, and proven outcomes make him a preferred choice for both Indian and international patients. Dr. Bahl ensures complete support from diagnosis to recovery.
How Much Does CNS Cancer Treatment Cost in India Compared to Other Countries?
Country
|
Cost (USD)
|
India
|
$7,500 – $10,000
|
Thailand
|
$25,000 – $40,000
|
USA
|
$80,000 – $150,000
|
India offers a 70-90% cost saving without compromising care quality.
What Kind of Recovery and Support Can Patients Expect After CNS Cancer Treatment?
- Hospital Stay: 3–5 Days
- Post-discharge Stay in India: 7–14 Days
- Follow-up: MRI every 3 months
- Rehabilitation: Physical therapy, neuro-cognitive rehabilitation, psychological support
- Survivorship Care: Endocrine assessment, quality of life improvement
What is the CNS Cancer Treatment Protocol in India (Sample Protocol)?
The CNS Cancer Treatment Protocol in India (Sample Protocol) is:
Glioblastoma (Grade IV) – Stupp Protocol:
- Surgery: Maximal resection
- Radiation: 60 Gy in 30 fractions
- Chemotherapy: Temozolomide concurrent + 6 cycles (28-day cycle)
- Monitoring: MRI every 3 months
Pilocytic Astrocytoma (Grade I):
- Surgery: Total resection is often curative
- No adjuvant therapy if complete resection
Diffuse Astrocytoma (Grade II):
- Surgery + Radiation if age >40 or incomplete resection
- Chemotherapy: PCV or Temozolomide
Anaplastic Astrocytoma (Grade III):
- Surgery
- Radiation + Concurrent Temozolomide
Cost Breakdown by Treatment Type
Component
|
India (USD)
|
Thailand (USD)
|
USA (USD)
|
Brain Surgery (Craniotomy)
|
$4,000 – $8,000
|
$7,000 – $12,000
|
$40,000 – $70,000
|
Awake Craniotomy
|
$7,000 – $10,000
|
$10,000 – $15,000
|
$60,000 – $90,000
|
IMRT Radiation
|
$5,000
|
$15,000
|
$30,000 – $50,000
|
Chemotherapy (TMZ)
|
$700 – $1,500
|
$1,000 – $2,000
|
$10,000 – $50,000
|
Diagnostics (MRI, Biopsy)
|
$500 – $1,000
|
$800 – $1,200
|
$3,000 – $6,000
|