Myeloma Cancer | Medotilglobal Healthcare

Introduction

Multiple myeloma is a type of cancer that begins in the plasma cells of the bone marrow, which are responsible for producing antibodies. In myeloma, these plasma cells become abnormal and multiply uncontrollably, leading to bone damage, kidney problems, and weakened immunity. The exact cause of myeloma is not fully understood, but certain genetic factors and environmental exposures may increase the risk. Symptoms often include bone pain, fatigue, frequent infections, and high calcium levels. Diagnosis typically involves blood tests, urine tests, and imaging scans. Treatment options include chemotherapy, targeted therapy, stem cell transplants, and newer therapies like immunotherapy. While multiple myeloma is generally not curable, advancements in treatment have significantly improved survival and quality of life for patients.

Cost Comparison

The cost of myeloma cancer treatment varies widely anywhere in the world, depending on the hospital, the stage of cancer, the type of treatment, the number of therapy sessions required, the patient’s overall health condition, post-operative complications, and care, etc. The average cost of myeloma cancer in India is USD $15,000.

But be assured as the cost of Myeloma cancer in India is just a fraction of developed nations.

Avg Cost of treatment - $15,000
Maximum cost of treatment - $30000

Medotil's Pledge: No Hidden Costs, Only Fair Prices!

Treatment costs may vary depending upon several conditions so to get a detailed treatment plan contact us below.

Factors affecting Cost of treatment

Type and Stage of Myeloma

Early vs. Advanced Stage: Treatment for advanced or relapsed multiple myeloma is often more complex and costly due to the need for aggressive therapies and longer treatment durations.
Subtypes: Different subtypes of myeloma (e.g., IgA, IgG, etc.) may require specific treatments that vary in cost.

Treatment Modality

Chemotherapy: The cost depends on the drugs used, frequency of administration, and duration of the treatment cycle.
Stem Cell Transplant: A major cost component, particularly if an autologous or allogeneic transplant is needed. Allogeneic transplants, which involve a donor, tend to be more expensive.
Immunotherapy and Targeted Therapy: These advanced therapies, including CAR-T cell therapy, monoclonal antibodies, and proteasome inhibitors, can significantly raise treatment costs.
Supportive Care: The cost for blood transfusions, growth factor injections, and antibiotics to manage side effects or complications can add up.

Treatment options

Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy is the standard treatment for multiple myeloma, using powerful drugs to kill cancer cells or slow their growth.
Induction Therapy: Initial chemotherapy to reduce the number of cancer cells.
Consolidation Therapy: Post-induction therapy to maintain remission.
Maintenance Therapy: Ongoing treatment to prevent relapse.

Stem Cell Transplant (Autologous or Allogeneic)

Autologous Stem Cell Transplant: The patient's own stem cells are collected before high-dose chemotherapy and then reintroduced to rebuild healthy bone marrow.
Allogeneic Stem Cell Transplant: Stem cells are obtained from a matched donor. This method is generally used in high-risk cases but can be more expensive and carries a higher risk of complications.

Targeted Therapy

Targeted therapies are designed to target specific genes or proteins that are involved in the growth of myeloma cells.
Common drugs include bortezomib (Velcade) and lenalidomide (Revlimid), which block the growth of cancer cells while minimizing damage to normal cells.

Immunotherapy

Immunotherapy boosts the body's immune system to fight cancer cells.
Monoclonal Antibodies: These are lab-made antibodies that can target and kill myeloma cells (e.g., Daratumumab).
CAR-T Cell Therapy: A newer form of treatment where a patient's T-cells are modified to attack myeloma cells more effectively.

Radiation Therapy

Radiation therapy uses high-energy rays to target and kill myeloma cells, particularly in cases where the cancer has localized to specific areas (such as bone lesions).
It is often used to relieve symptoms like bone pain.

Supportive Care

Blood Transfusions: To treat anemia caused by low red blood cell counts.
Bisphosphonates: To strengthen bones and reduce bone pain and fractures caused by myeloma.
Growth Factors: To stimulate the production of white blood cells or platelets, especially after chemotherapy or stem cell transplantation.
Pain Management: Managing bone pain and other symptoms through medications or interventions like nerve blocks.

Clinical Trials

Patients may have access to experimental therapies through clinical trials, which test new treatment regimens and drugs not yet widely available. Hospitals like Max Healthcare offer clinical trial opportunities for eligible patients.

Palliative Care

Palliative care focuses on improving the quality of life, managing symptoms, and providing emotional and psychological support, especially for patients in advanced stages of myeloma or those who do not respond to curative treatments.

How Medotil Global Assists International Patients

Medical Visa Assistance

Guides patients through the process of obtaining a medical visa for India.
Provides necessary documentation support, such as invitation letters from hospitals.

Accommodation Arrangements

Helps secure comfortable and affordable lodging near treatment centers.
Offers a range of options, including guest houses, hotels, or serviced apartments.

Food Services

Assists in arranging dietary preferences, including international cuisines and special diets for medical needs.

Transportation Support

Provides airport pickup and drop-off services.
Offers reliable transportation for hospital visits and local travel.

Hospital and Doctor Selection

Recommends top hospitals and connects patients with experienced specialists in their specific condition.
Ensures access to advanced medical treatments and technology.

Tourism Services

Organizes visits to famous tourist attractions like the Taj Mahal, Jaipur, Kerala, and other cultural landmarks.
Tailors travel plans based on patient preferences and recovery needs.