Jaipur: A 30-month-old child diagnosed with high-risk neuroblastoma has been successfully treated at HCG Cancer Centre, Jaipur, showcasing the impact of timely intervention and multidisciplinary care in paediatric oncology.
The child underwent a comprehensive treatment plan involving intensive chemotherapy, surgical excision, and an autologous stem cell transplant (ASCT), leading to a stable recovery and a renewed sense of hope for the family.
The child first showed symptoms in January 2025, including recurrent abdominal pain, intermittent loose stools, vomiting, and low-grade fever. After an initial consultation with a private practitioner, the persistence of symptoms led the family to HCG Cancer Centre, Jaipur.
A detailed clinical evaluation and diagnostic work-up confirmed the presence of high-risk neuroblastoma. Treatment began with intravenous chemotherapy to reduce the tumour size. The child responded well, showing a significant decrease in tumour volume.
This response allowed the surgical team to proceed with removal of the remaining abdominal mass.In June 2025, surgeons at HCG Jaipur performed a successful excision, followed by a stable post-operative recovery.
Due to the aggressive nature of high-risk neuroblastoma and its tendency to relapse, the oncology team recommended an autologous stem cell transplant (ASCT) as a consolidation therapy. After detailed counselling and family consent, the transplant was carried out on July 23, 2025.
The procedure was conducted by a specialized team comprising paediatric oncologists, haematologists, and intensive care experts. By Day 10 post-transplant, the child showed signs of stem cell engraftment. On Day 14, the patient was discharged in a stable condition — a key step toward remission.
Dr Jitendra Kumar Pehalajani, Consultant Medical Oncologist, and Dr Monika Bhukar, Consultant – Paediatric Haematology Oncology and BMT at HCG Cancer Centre Jaipur, stated: “High-risk neuroblastoma in toddlers is one of the most complex challenges in paediatric oncology.
These tumours often present late and require a carefully planned, step-by-step approach. In this case, the child had a large abdominal mass with metastases. Systemic chemotherapy helped reduce the tumour burden and improve clinical condition, making surgery safer.
Given the high relapse risk, ASCT was essential. High-dose chemotherapy helped eliminate remaining cancer cells, while the stem cell rescue supported bone marrow recovery. Early engraftment and stable recovery highlight the capability of our transplant team.
This case underlines the value of coordinated care, where we aim not just for survival, but for long-term health and quality of life—even in smaller cities like Jaipur.”The child’s parents shared their gratitude with the team: “Hearing that our little one had cancer was the hardest moment of our lives.
At just two and a half years old, we were terrified. But the doctors and nurses at HCG Jaipur guided us with care and clarity at every step. From diagnosis to transplant, they treated our child with compassion and stood by us like family.
Today, seeing our child happy and healthy at home is a blessing we’ll always be thankful for.” This case reflects HCG Jaipur’s strong focus on improving access to advanced paediatric cancer care in tier-2 cities. Through a combination of up-to-date treatment protocols, surgical precision, and transplant expertise, the centre continues to deliver high-quality care for complex paediatric conditions.
NIf left untreated, high-risk neuroblastoma carries a poor prognosis. However, with timely diagnosis, coordinated care, and therapies such as ASCT, outcomes can improve significantly — both in terms of survival and quality of life.
The child’s recovery not only brings comfort to their family but also highlights that advanced paediatric cancer care is now available beyond metro cities.
Dr Naresh Somani, Director – Oncology at HCG Cancer Centre Jaipur, added: “Our transplant program has successfully completed both Stem Cell Transplants and CAR-T Cell Therapy, demonstrating that world-class cancer treatment is possible right here in Jaipur.”
