Mumbai: Stem cell therapy saves a newborn

Born prematurely during the 26th week of pregnancy Rudransh Dubey (now 10-months-old) got a new life with intra-pulmonary stem cell therapy. The preterm baby weiging 600 grams, developed severe broncho pulmonary dysplasia (BPD) was saved by a stem cell.

The baby suffered from severe respiratory distress, infections, anemia, and low platelet counts. While he was shifted to the Santacruz based Surya Hospital on July 24, 2018, he was kept on the ventilator support.

In case of preterm babies weighing between 1 to 1.5 kgs, there are around 15 percent chances to get chronic lung disease, while in case of preterm babies weighing below 1 kg, there is around 50 percent to get a chronic lung disease.

Dr. Nandkishor Kabra, Director, NICU, Surya Hospital, said, "This therapy was used as a last resort. For treating BPD, the therapy was given in the lungs through a breathing tube in four doses. The therapy could have side effects like sudden increase in heartbeat rate, infection, and can also develop cancer. But the baby recovered well, and has been discharged."

Dr Anil More, assistant dean of Sion Hospital who works in the pediatric department, said, "Stem cell therapy is an emerging medical technique. Due to chronic lung disease, there are fewer chances of the baby to survive for a longer period. The treatment worked for the infant successfully."

Pramod Dubey, the father of Rudransh, said, "During birth, we were unable to save and bank his stem cells through the umbilical cord. With the help of our dear ones, we were able to save my son's life by arranging stem cells for him. People should be made aware of banking the cord blood."