Bosnian Child with Leukemia Receives Groundbreaking Microbiota Transplant in Italy
In a heartwarming story of hope and medical innovation, a Slavic family traveled from Bosnia to Italy in search of treatment for their child, who was suffering from leukemia. The family arrived in Bologna and sought treatment at the Irccs Sant’Orsola, where their young child underwent a double stem cell transplant followed by an exceptional microbiota transplant.
The child, who had been hospitalized for myeloid leukemia, became the youngest patient in Europe (and the second in the world, according to literature) to undergo the cutting-edge microbiota transplant. The procedure involved transplanting the set of bacteria and microorganisms that inhabit the intestine, and required special authorization due to the child’s age and the nature of their illness.
Riccardo Masetti, a pediatric oncologist at IRCCS, explained that the initial stem cell transplant seemed to have put the disease in remission, but the child later developed a serious complication known as GvHD, a rejection of the host’s cells. After traditional treatments proved ineffective, the medical team at Irccs Sant’Orsola decided to attempt the groundbreaking microbiota transplant.
Giovanni Barbara, head of the IRCCS Microbiota Transplant Center, expressed confidence in the procedure, citing international studies that confirmed its potential. The success of the surgery was evident as the child’s condition immediately improved, and the symptoms of GvHD regressed. The child was able to reduce their immunosuppressant therapy and eventually return home with their family.
Massimo Cardillo, the director of the National Transplant Center, hailed the microbiota transplant as “an incredible result of research,” emphasizing the broad, yet unpredictable, potential of this therapy. Irccs Sant’Orsola also published its research on the connection between microbiota health and transplantation in the renowned journal Blood.
Chiara Gibertoni, the general director of the hospital, praised the success of the innovative treatment, highlighting how the research directly impacts patient care. The exceptional case of the young child receiving a microbiota transplant also required a special authorization procedure from the National Transplant Center, as the procedure is typically reserved for adult patients with specific infections.
The journey of the Slavic family from Bosnia to Italy ultimately ended with a happy outcome, showcasing the power of medical innovation and the unwavering dedication of healthcare professionals. The successful microbiota transplant not only saved the life of a young child but also opened up new possibilities for future patients in need of this groundbreaking treatment.
By Alice Pavarotti