Life-Saving Stem Cell Transplant Helps Toddler Beat Cancer at HCG Cancer Centre Jaipur

Jaipur: Doctors at HCG Cancer Centre, Jaipur have successfully treated a 30-month-old child diagnosed with high-risk neuroblastoma, one of the most common extracranial solid tumors in children.

The child received comprehensive, multidisciplinary care that included intensive chemotherapy, surgical removal of the tumor, and an autologous stem cell transplant (ASCT), leading to a positive recovery and renewed hope for the family.

The child first developed symptoms in January 2025, with recurrent abdominal pain, intermittent loose stools, vomiting, and low-grade fever. Initially, the family consulted a private practitioner, but as symptoms persisted, they approached HCG Cancer Centre, Jaipur. A thorough evaluation and diagnostic work-up confirmed high-risk neuroblastoma.

Treatment began with intravenous chemotherapy to shrink the tumor. The child responded well, with a significant reduction in disease volume, creating an opportunity for surgical intervention. In June 2025, the surgical team at HCG Jaipur successfully excised the residual abdominal tumor. Post-surgery, the child’s recovery was stable.

Considering the high chance of relapse in neuroblastoma, the doctors recommended ASCT as consolidation therapy. After extensive counseling with the family, the procedure was carried out on July 23, 2025, by a team of pediatric oncologists, hematologists, and critical care specialists.

By Day 10, the child showed successful stem cell engraftment, and by Day 14, was discharged in stable condition.

Dr. Jitendra Kumar Pehalajani, Consultant Medical Oncologist, and Dr. Monika Bhukar, Consultant – Pediatric Hematology Oncology and BMT, explained: “High-risk neuroblastoma in toddlers is among the most difficult conditions to treat in pediatric oncology.

These aggressive tumors usually present at an advanced stage and require a carefully sequenced, multimodal approach. In this case, chemotherapy reduced the tumor burden, enabling safer surgery, and ASCT was critical to minimize relapse risk.”

They added that engraftment within 10 days and smooth recovery highlighted the strength of HCG Jaipur’s transplant program, reflecting the value of a multidisciplinary approach where the focus extends beyond cure to long-term quality of life.

The child’s parents expressed deep gratitude: “Hearing our child had cancer was devastating. At just two and a half years old, we couldn’t imagine how they would endure such treatment. The doctors and nurses at HCG Jaipur guided us with patience, stood with us at every stage, and gave us strength. Today, seeing our child smile and return home feels like a blessing.”

This case highlights HCG Jaipur’s role in making advanced pediatric oncology care accessible in tier-2 cities. By combining modern treatment protocols, surgical expertise, and transplant facilities, the centre continues to provide world-class care for challenging pediatric cancers.

High-risk neuroblastoma, if left untreated, carries poor prognosis. However, with timely diagnosis, multidisciplinary planning, and advanced therapies like ASCT, outcomes and quality of life can be significantly improved.

Dr. Naresh Somani, Director – Oncology, HCG Cancer Centre Jaipur, added that the centre has successfully performed both Stem Cell Transplant and CAR-T Cell Therapy, further strengthening its transplant program.