American Oncology Institute (AOI) Calicut saves 66-Year-Old male Suffering from Rare Bladder Cancer  

Calicut, January 23, 2024: A Calicut based 66-year-old male patient diagnosed with advanced Small Cell Carcinoma Urinary Bladder, was successfully treated at American Oncology Institute (AOI), Calicut. As the case was an uncommon one, it was immediately presented at the Multidisciplinary Tumour Board to review, discuss and devise out the treatment options.  

Regi Varghese (name changed) initially came to AOI with the distressing symptom of blood in his urine. After extensive evaluations and tests, doctors identified his condition as Stage III Small Cell Carcinoma of the bladder, a particularly challenging type of cancer. Under the expert care of Dr. Midhun Murali, MD, Radiation Oncology at AOI, a comprehensive treatment plan was put into action. This included upfront chemotherapy to shrink the tumor and reduce the risk of it spreading. Subsequently, Mr. Varghese underwent external beam radiotherapy with a cutting-edge technique called Rapid Arc - IGRT, designed to precisely target the bladder and pelvis while minimizing exposure to healthy tissues. 

Dr Midhun Murali, MD, Radiation Oncology, AOI, explained, "Our goal was to deliver high doses of radiation to the tumor while sparing healthy tissues. We achieved this through external beam radiotherapy with an advanced technique called Rapid Arc - IGRT to the bladder and the pelvis ensuring that the cancerous cells were effectively targeted along with chemotherapy for six cycles. IGRT technique helps to ensure that the intended target is not missed by radiation. Mr. Varghese's response was truly exceptional, considering the aggressive nature of Small Cell Carcinoma." 

Small Cell Cancers are notorious for their aggressiveness and potential to spread to other parts of the body, making early diagnosis and treatment critical. Dr Midhun urges to the general public to quit smoking, or any other form of tobacco use as it is the single-most important risk factor for various cancers. Varghese's initially faced anxiety and uncertainty. However, his resilience and positive outlook played a vital role in his recovery. Post-treatment, he has regained his confidence and resumed his daily activities. His story serves as an inspiration for all those battling cancer. 

Krishna Das, Zonal Director, American Oncology Institute, Calicut, commended AOI's commitment to providing world-class cancer care. He highlighted AOI’s practice of convening local and international tumor boards to ensure the best treatment protocols are followed, taking advantage of remarkable advances in cancer care. “At AOI, we discuss patient care at local and international tumour boards on a weekly basis to ensure that best-in-class treatment protocols are followed in each case. Phenomenal advances in diagnostic and therapeutic capability have made organ conservation possible in sphincter preservation in rectal cancers and many more. American Oncology Institute (AOI) is committed to offering best-in-class clinical expertise, technological superiority, and passionate care for our patients in South Asia.”