MGM Cancer Institute Successfully Performs Life-Saving Bone Marrow Transplant on 33-Year-Old Woman with Rare Genetic Immunodeficiency

Chennai: MGM Cancer Institute in Chennai has achieved a remarkable medical milestone by successfully performing a bone marrow transplant on a 33-year-old woman diagnosed with GATA2 primary immunodeficiency, a rare genetic disorder that weakens the immune system. The patient, Janani, had been living with this condition for nearly 24 years, enduring recurrent infections throughout her life.

The medical team, led by Dr. Gopinathan, Consultant, Hemato-Oncology, MGM Cancer Institute, performed a half-matched (haploidentical) transplant, where the donor shared only 50% of her genetic profile. This procedure was particularly challenging due to the patient’s compromised lung function and disseminated non-tubercular mycobacterial infection. Despite severe infection and gut-related complications during the transplant process, Janani responded well to intensive care and achieved timely engraftment, enabling her to make a full recovery.

Dr. M.A. Raja, Director and Senior Consultant, Medical Oncology, MGM Cancer Institute, highlighted the rarity of GATA2 immunodeficiency in adults, with only about 2% of cases presenting in adulthood. He emphasized the importance of early diagnosis and bone marrow transplantation as a potential cure, given that approximately 70% of individuals with GATA2 mutations are at risk of developing myelodysplastic syndrome or acute myeloid leukemia.

Thanks to the expertise of MGM Cancer Institute’s medical team, Janani was able to return to normal life just three months after the procedure. This successful transplant marks a significant breakthrough in the treatment of rare genetic immunodeficiencies and showcases the institute’s commitment to providing cutting-edge medical care.

GATA2 primary immunodeficiency is a rare genetic disorder that impairs the production of essential blood and immune cells, increasing the risk of serious bone marrow diseases. Bone marrow transplantation is the only definitive cure for this condition, and MGM Cancer Institute’s successful procedure demonstrates the potential for improved outcomes with advanced medical interventions.