R. S. Crow, working in Bristol, was the first one to describe POEMS syndrome in 1956 and was subsequently described by Fukase in 1969. The acronym POEMS was coined by Bardwick in 1980. The syndrome was also referred to as Crow–Fukase syndrome by Nakanishi in 1984 based on a Japanese study of 102 cases, and this name is more widely known in Japan than POEMS syndrome.
(People Also Like To Read: Top Hospitals For International Patients In India 2023)
POEMS syndrome treatment cost in India is one of the lowest in the world. But what makes POEMS syndrome so unique?
Keep on reading!
What Is POEMS Syndrome?
POEMS syndrome is a rare blood disorder that can damage your nerves and affect other body parts as well. The syndrome is characterized by many abnormal plasma cells multiplying out of control. These cells release a monoclonal protein (or M-protein) into your blood. Too many abnormal plasma cells and too much M-protein can damage your nerves and organs.
POEMS is an acronym based on its most common symptoms:
P – Polyneuropathy
O – Organomegaly
E – Endocrinopathy
M – Monoclonal protein (M-protein)
S – Skin changes
What Causes POEMS Syndrome?
The exact cause of POEMS syndrome is unknown, but research suggests that a chemical called VEGF (vascular endothelial growth factor) plays a vital role in this disease.
What Are The Signs And Symptoms Of POEMS Syndrome?
The most common signs of POEMS syndrome are polyneuropathy, organomegaly, endocrinopathy, having too many M-proteins, and skin changes. Each common sign has its own set of symptoms, such as:
P – Polyneuropathy
- Weakness.
- Tingling.
- Numbness.
- Prickling.
- Burning.
- A pins-and-needles sensation.
O – Organomegaly
Imaging procedures may show that you have an enlarged:
- Liver (hepatomegaly).
- Spleen (splenomegaly).
- Lymph nodes (lymphadenopathy).
E – Endocrinopathy
Low sex hormone levels are a common sign of POEMS endocrinopathy, which affects testosterone and estrogen. Additional symptoms include:
- Blood sugar regulation issues, like diabetes.
- Thyroid problems, such as hypothyroidism.
- Addison’s disease involves adrenal insufficiency.
In individuals assigned male at birth (AMAB), fertility problems and gynecomastia (enlarged breasts) may occur. For those assigned female at birth (AFAB), expect amenorrhea (missed periods) and breast growth. Elevated prolactin levels may lead to nipple discharge, even if not pregnant.
M – Monoclonal protein (M-protein)
High levels of M-protein in your body can cause tumor formation in your blood and your bones to become thickened or hardened.
S – Skin changes
A variety of skin changes may take place, including:
- Darker skin.
- Thicker skin.
- White fingernails.
- Increased hair growth on your face and legs.
- Growth of blood vessels (particularly on your chest) that look like small cherries.
Other symptoms may include:
- Swelling in your arms and legs.
- Unexplained weight loss.
- Bone and joint pain.
- Vision problems.
- Trouble breathing.
- Fatigue.
- Fever.
Who Treats POEMS Syndrome?
A medical team consisting of specialists such as myeloma specialists, radiologists, cardiologists, endocrinologists, neurologists, dermatologists, etc., treats POEMS syndrome.
The disorder requires a holistic treatment approach as many parts and organs of the body are affected by the disease. The syndrome also has many complications that can further complicate the situation if even one aspect of the disease is ignored.
Which Body Systems Are Affected By POEMS Syndrome?
POEMS syndrome is a complicated disease that can affect many bodily systems, such as:
- Hematological System: Involves an increase in the levels of WBCs, monoclonal plasma cells, and specific proteins.
- Nervous System: Includes peripheral neuropathy, weakness, numbness, and tingling in the extremities.
- Endocrine System: Hormonal imbalance can lead to low sex drive and disruption in the functioning of the glands like the thyroid.
- Skeletal System: Bone lesions and abnormalities can occur, leading to bone pain, fractures, and deformities.
- Skin: Hyperpigmentation and thickening of the skin.
- Cardiovascular System: Heart abnormalities and diseases can occur, like heart failure.
- Respiratory System: Problems like breathing difficulty and pleural effusions can occur.
What Age Do You Get POEMS Syndrome?
POEMS syndrome occurs 1.5 times more frequently among men than women, and the typical age of onset is adults in their 50s.
(People Also Like To Read: Revolutionary Motor Neuron Disease Treatment in India)
How Can You Diagnose POEMS Syndrome?
Your health practitioner will discuss your medical history with you. Based on your symptoms, your doctor will conduct a physical examination and will suggest some of the following tests to confirm the diagnosis:
- Blood And Urine Tests: Your blood or urine sample will be examined for elevated levels of M-protein or VEGF. They will also look for an abnormal amount of blood or abnormal-looking blood cells that may be signs of POEMS.
- Imaging Tests: Your doctor will conduct CT and X-rays to see if your bones have hardened or thickened. These changes can occur if you have too much M-protein.
- Bone Marrow Biopsy: BMS can reveal if you have abnormal-looking or many plasma cells.
- Electromyogram (EMG): An EMG is a test that measures nerve function. It can help your provider diagnose polyneuropathy.
What Is The Treatment For POEMS Syndrome?
POEMS syndrome treatment in India follows a holistic approach to managing the symptoms to improve the quality of life. Some treatments available for POEMS syndrome in India are:
- Chemotherapy: A treatment that uses drugs to destroy or slow down the growth of abnormal plasma cells. It is commonly used as an oral or intravenous therapy, circling throughout the body to reach the abnormal plasma cells.
- Radiation therapy: Radiation therapy uses high-powered energy beams, such as X-rays or protons, to kill abnormal plasma cells.
- Autologous Bone Marrow Transplant: In an autologous stem cell transplant, your provider removes healthy stem cells from your body, eradicates abnormal plasma cells with chemo or radiation, and then reintroduces the stem cells to mature into healthy plasma cells.
- Physical Therapy: To help you with mobility issues due to polyneuropathy.
What Is The POEMS Syndrome Treatment Cost In India?
The POEMS syndrome treatment cost in India lies between USD 8,000 and USD 10,000, depending on the patient’s condition and hospital chosen.
Which Are The Best POEMS Syndrome Treatment Hospitals In India?
GoMedii has compiled a list of top hospitals in India offering the best and most affordable POEMS syndrome cost in India.
The hospitals are:
- Apollo Hospitals, Bannerghatta Road, Bangalore
- Nanavati Super Specialty Hospital, Mumbai
- Max Super Specialty Hospital, Saket, Delhi
- Gleneagles Global Hospital, Hyderabad
- Venkateshwar Hospital, Delhi
- Fortis Hospital, Kolkata
- Fortis Memorial Research Institute, Gurgaon
- MGM Healthcare, Chennai
- Accord Hospitals, Faridabad
- Manipal Hospitals, Delhi
FAQs On POEMS Syndrome Treatment Cost In India
Q: Is there a cure for POEMS syndrome?
A: Bone Marrow Transplant has been termed as a potential cure for POEMS syndrome.
Q: What is the survival rate for POEMS syndrome?
A: The average survival rate for POEMS syndrome is 8 to 14 years.
Q: What is the POEMS syndrome treatment cost in India?
A: The POEMS syndrome treatment cost in India lies between USD 8,000 and USD 10,000, depending on the patient’s condition and hospital chosen.
Q: Who treats POEMS syndrome?
A: A medical team consisting of specialists such as myeloma specialists, radiologists, cardiologists, endocrinologists, neurologists, dermatologists, etc., treats POEMS syndrome.
Q: What are the new treatments for POEMS syndrome?
A: BorDex Therapy and Bortezomib are some of the latest treatments to treat POEMS syndrome. When BorDex Therapy is used with radiation, a dramatic improvement in serum VEGF, as well as peripheral neuropathy, has been seen without significant toxicity.
Choose GoMedii For The Best And Most Affordable POEMS Syndrome Treatment Cost In India
If you want the best and most affordable POEMS syndrome treatment cost in India, you are at the right place and time! Trust GoMedii with your treatment; we assure you of a top-notch, hassle-free process.
We have tie-ups with one of India’s most reputed hospitals to get you the best treatment at an affordable cost. Furthermore, to avail of our packages, you can contact us on our “Website” or call us at +91 9599004311. Additionally, you can also email us at connect@gomedii.com. Our team will respond to you on a priority basis.
Feel free to drop your queries through this form. Our team of experts will contact you!
(People Also Like To Read: Partial Knee Replacement Surgery Cost In India)
About GoMedii: GoMedii is a Healthcare Technology Platform That Works Out Your Treatment / Surgery the Way You Need & Plan. A Treatment partner that simplifies the patient journey at every step. Drop Your Queries for the most affordable & world-class treatment options.You may simply download the GoMedii app for Android or iOS.