Campath Sensitivity Treatment in India

Krishna Khan, a 58-year-old former school...

Krishna Khan, a 58-year-old former school librarian, was diagnosed with B-cell chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) two years ago. After initial treatment with fludarabine, her cancer returned aggressively. She experienced debilitating fatigue, frequent infections, and painful swollen lymph nodes in her neck and groin. Her oncologist, Dr. Chen, recommended a stem cell transplant and proposed using Campath (alemtuzumab) as part of the pre-transplant conditioning regimen. However, due to the risk of severe infusion reactions, a Campath Sensitivity test was required first. During the test, Krishna was anxious, clutching a photo of her grandchildren. The test itself was a controlled, slow infusion under close monitoring. She experienced mild chills and a rash, which were quickly managed with medications, confirming a sensitivity but one that could be controlled. This successful test meant she could proceed with the full Campath treatment and transplant. Emotionally, Krishna moved from a place of fear and exhaustion, feeling like a burden to her family, to one of cautious hope. Knowing the path forward was clear and that her reaction could be managed gave her the strength to face the transplant. She felt heard and carefully guided by her medical team.