Neuroblastoma Treatment in India
India offers specialized, cost-effective treatment for Neuroblastoma, a rare pediatric cancer affecting nerve tissue. With options like surgery, chemotherapy, stem cell transplant, and immunotherapy, treatment costs in India range between $8,000 – $25,000. In contrast, similar care costs $80,000 – $200,000 in the USA and $20,000 – $40,000 in Thailand, making India a trusted destination for expert and affordable pediatric oncology.
What is Neuroblastoma?
Neuroblastoma is a type of cancer that primarily affects infants and young children. It develops from immature nerve cells called neuroblasts, most commonly originating in the adrenal glands above the kidneys, but it can also occur in the neck, chest, abdomen, or spine. It is one of the most common cancers in children under five and is considered aggressive in its advanced stages.
What Causes Neuroblastoma and Who is Affected?
The exact cause of Neuroblastoma is unknown, but genetic mutations during fetal development are suspected. It is rarely inherited, though familial cases do occur. Children under the age of 5 are most commonly affected, with some diagnosed as early as infancy. Risk factors may include:
- Family history (rare)
- Genetic mutations (e.g., ALK gene)
- Congenital disorders
What are the Types and Stages of Neuroblastoma?
Types and Stages of Neuroblastoma:
Neuroblastoma is classified by risk groups based on age, cancer stage, and biology:
Types (based on biology):
- Low-risk Neuroblastoma
- Intermediate-risk Neuroblastoma
- High-risk Neuroblastoma
Stages (INRG Staging System):
- L1: Localized tumor with no vital structure involvement
- L2: Locoregional tumor with image-defined risk factors
- M: Distant metastasis
- MS: Metastatic in infants (<18 months) with limited sites
Why Do International Patients Choose India for Neuroblastoma Treatment?
India is globally recognized for providing world-class cancer treatment at a fraction of the cost. International patients choose India for:
- Affordable, high-quality care
- Modern cancer centers with JCI/NABH accreditations
- Access to pediatric oncology experts
- Short waiting times for surgery and therapy
- Comprehensive support services for international families
Why Choose Dr. Ankur Bahl for Neuroblastoma and Pediatric Oncology Care?
Dr. Ankur Bahl is a renowned oncologist in India with extensive experience in pediatric cancers, including Neuroblastoma. International patients trust him for:
- Evidence-based, personalized care
- Expertise in chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and stem cell transplant
- International treatment protocols (NCCN/ESMO)
- Compassionate, family-centered approach
Transparent communication and global patient handling experience
What is the Detailed Treatment Protocol for Neuroblastoma in India?
Treatment depends on risk classification and may include:
1. Surgery:
- For low- and intermediate-risk Neuroblastoma
- Aims to remove the tumor fully or partially depending on location and involvement
2. Chemotherapy:
- First-line treatment for intermediate- and high-risk Neuroblastoma
- Often used before surgery to shrink tumors
- Drugs include Cyclophosphamide, Doxorubicin, Vincristine, Etoposide, and Cisplatin
3. Radiation Therapy:
- Used in high-risk cases post-surgery or for palliative care
- Targeted radiation minimizes damage to surrounding tissue
4. Autologous Stem Cell Transplant (ASCT):
- High-dose chemotherapy followed by rescue using the patient’s own stem cells
- Improves survival in high-risk patients
5. Immunotherapy:
- Anti-GD2 monoclonal antibody (e.g., dinutuximab) used post-transplant
- Helps destroy residual cancer cells
6. Retinoid Therapy:
- 13-cis-retinoic acid (isotretinoin) given after ASCT to prevent relapse
Diagnostic & Imaging Tools and Medical Devices Used
- MIBG Scintigraphy (for tumor detection and monitoring)
- MRI/CT Scan (for staging and surgical planning)
- Bone Marrow Aspiration and Biopsy
- Central Venous Catheters (for chemotherapy administration)
- Flow cytometry and cytogenetic analysis (e.g., MYCN amplification)
Procedures Required for Diagnosis and Treatment
- Surgical biopsy (open or needle-guided)
- Imaging (MRI, MIBG, PET-CT)
- Bone marrow biopsy
- Stem cell harvest (via peripheral blood stem cell collection)
- Central line placement (port or Hickman catheter
Cost Breakdown for Neuroblastoma Treatment in India
|
Treatment Component |
Estimated Cost (USD) |
|
Diagnostic Tests & Imaging |
$800 – $1,500 |
|
Surgical Tumor Removal |
$3,000 – $6,000 |
|
Chemotherapy (per cycle) |
$600 – $1,000 |
|
Radiation Therapy (if needed) |
$2,500 – $4,000 |
|
Stem Cell Transplant (High-dose Chemo + ASCT) |
$12,000 – $20,000 |
|
Immunotherapy (e.g., dinutuximab) |
$2,000 – $4,000 |
|
Follow-up & Supportive Care |
$1,000 – $2,000 |
International Cost Comparison
|
Country |
Total Cost Estimate (USD) |
|
India |
$8,000 – $25,000 |
|
USA |
$80,000 – $200,000 |
|
Thailand |
$20,000 – $40,000 |
|
UK |
$70,000 – $150,000 |
What are the Benefits of Getting Neuroblastoma Treatment in India?
Benefits of Getting Neuroblastoma Treatment in India:
Cost-effective care with uncompromised quality
Access to global standard treatment protocols
Multidisciplinary pediatric oncology teams
English-speaking staff and international patient departments
Cultural familiarity, visa assistance, and accommodation support
Duration of Treatment and Recovery Timeline
Initial Evaluation & Diagnosis: 5–7 days
Chemotherapy + Surgery Phase: 2–3 months
Stem Cell Transplant (if applicable): 4–6 weeks inpatient
Immunotherapy & Retinoid Phase: 2–3 months
Follow-up & Recovery: Ongoing for 1–2 years, with routine scans and bloodwork
Conclusion India has emerged as a hub for affordable, advanced cancer treatment for children. With its combination of expert oncologists like Dr. Ankur Bahl, modern infrastructure, and patient-centric care, it stands out as an ideal destination for families seeking comprehensive Neuroblastoma care without the financial burden of Western countries
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. In low- and intermediate-risk cases, the cure rates are high. Even high-risk Neuroblastoma is potentially curable with aggressive multimodal therapy, though it requires a more intensive approach involving surgery, high-dose chemotherapy, stem cell transplant, and immunotherapy.
Treatment can span anywhere from 6 to 12 months depending on the stage and therapy. High-risk cases involving stem cell transplant and immunotherapy may take longer with prolonged recovery and follow-up periods.
Absolutely. Indian hospitals follow globally recognized protocols such as NCCN and ESMO. The technologies, equipment, medications, and expertise available are on par with top cancer centers in the US or Europe.
Yes. Most major hospitals in India have English-speaking pediatric oncologists, nurses, and patient coordinators. Interpretation services are also available for non-English-speaking families.
Yes. Reputed hospitals offer full international patient assistance including help with visa invitation letters, airport transfers, hotel booking, local transportation, and translation if needed.
Yes. Autologous stem cell transplants are a standard part of treatment for high-risk Neuroblastoma and are performed safely under experienced pediatric transplant teams with infection control protocols.
Patients require regular follow-up care including scans, blood tests, and physical exams to monitor for recurrence. Nutritional support, rehabilitation, and psychological counseling are also part of holistic recovery.
Yes. India has access to essential drugs like dinutuximab (anti-GD2 antibody), isotretinoin (13-cis-retinoic acid), and all standard chemotherapy agents. Cost-effective generics may also be available.
Treatment typically begins within a few days of arrival, following evaluation and diagnostic confirmation. Some hospitals offer fast-track admissions for urgent cases.