The Emirates News Agency reported that Yas Clinic in Khalifa City partnered with the Abu Dhabi Stem Cells Centre to carry out the procedure on the child diagnosed at four to five months with infantile B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia featuring a high-risk genetic mutation. The boy had received chemotherapy at another facility and achieved remission before referral to the specialized team for the transplant. Medical staff monitored his progress closely through potential complications while maintaining strict safety protocols throughout the treatment.
ADSCC data from July 2024 places the total number of bone marrow transplants performed by the centre above 100 with nearly 20 involving pediatric patients ranging in age from three months to 18 years. The programme has achieved strong engraftment rates alongside minimal incidence of graft-versus-host disease in line with international benchmarks for such interventions. These outcomes reflect the expanding capacity for advanced cellular therapies within the UAE health system.
Dr. Maysoon Al Karam chief medical officer at Yas Clinic stated “This successful matched unrelated donor bone marrow transplant in a child reflects our team’s clinical excellence and unwavering commitment to delivering advanced lifesaving care. It marks a significant milestone in expanding complex pediatric transplant services while maintaining the highest standards of safety and outcomes.” Her assessment came amid ongoing development of regional capabilities in pediatric oncology.
Dr. Mansi Sachdev paediatric hematologist and bone marrow transplant specialist at Yas Clinic noted the intricacies involved in the case. “The case reflects both the complexity and the promise of innovative bone marrow transplant care. Despite facing serious complications his recovery reminds us why advanced medicine vigilance and perseverance matter.” The specialist emphasized coordinated care between institutions as a key factor in the positive trajectory.
The procedure aligns with broader investments in specialized medical infrastructure across Abu Dhabi that have reduced reliance on overseas treatment for complex conditions. Public health statistics indicate leukemia accounts for a notable share of pediatric cancer cases in the Gulf region where early intervention through local centres improves long-term survival prospects. Officials at both facilities continue to track the child’s progress as he moves toward full discharge in the coming days.
Collaboration between Yas Clinic and ADSCC teams integrated expertise in hematology stem cell processing and post-transplant support to address the child’s specific needs. Prior remission from initial chemotherapy created a window for the unrelated donor transplant when no family match was available. The approach demonstrates the maturity of the UAE’s regenerative medicine sector in handling rare aggressive pediatric cancers.
