Patient Information
Name: Aaliyah Belsara
Age: 07
Gender: Female
Country of Origin*: Dubai
Condition: Astrocytoma
Treatment: Proton Therapy
Doctor: Dr. Rakesh Jalali & Team
Hospital: Apollo Proton Cancer Centre
Duration in India: 6-7 Weeks
A Young Girl’s Unexpected Diagnosis
At just seven years old, Aliyah Belsara a bright and active young girl from Dubai was living a normal childhood when her family began noticing unusual symptoms like low back pain for 6-7 months . Concerned, they sought medical advice, and after multiple consultations and imaging tests, doctors identified an intramedullary lesion in her spinal cord, highly suggestive of a high-grade neoplasm. Given the complexity of the condition, a decision was made to proceed with surgery for further evaluation and possible removal of the tumor.
Surgical Intervention and Pathology Findings
On August 26, 2024, she underwent resection surgery, a crucial step in diagnosing and treating the condition. The surgery aimed to remove as much of the tumor as possible while preserving neurological function. The initial frozen section report and the later detailed pathology confirmed the presence of a high-grade astrocytoma, a type of aggressive tumor affecting the central nervous system.
Further pathology tests revealed that the tumor was:
- IDH-negative and EMA-negative, indicating a more aggressive nature.
- Contained Rosenthal fibers in some sections, typically associated with lower-grade tumors, creating a complex diagnostic picture.
- Showed microvascular proliferation, a feature seen in high-grade tumors.
- However, necrosis was absent, which can sometimes indicate a slightly better prognosis compared to tumors with necrotic areas.
Given these findings, the medical team advised advanced radiation therapy to target any remaining tumor cells and improve long-term outcomes.
Choosing the Best Treatment: Proton Therapy in India
After careful deliberation, her family decided to seek specialized treatment at Apollo Proton Cancer Centre in Chennai, India, a leading facility for proton beam therapy. They placed their trust in Dr. Rakesh Jalali and his expert team, who have extensive experience in treating pediatric brain and spinal tumors.
Proton therapy was chosen due to its precision in delivering radiation directly to the tumor while sparing healthy surrounding tissues, reducing potential side effects—especially important for a growing child.
The Journey of Hope: Treatment and Recovery in India
For the next six to seven weeks, she underwent proton therapy sessions at Apollo. The treatment was carefully planned to ensure maximum effectiveness while minimizing any long-term impact on her spinal cord and nervous system.
Throughout the treatment, she displayed remarkable courage, undergoing daily therapy sessions with a bright spirit. Her family provided unwavering emotional and physical support, ensuring she remained comfortable and motivated. The medical team’s compassionate care helped ease the challenges of treatment, making the process more manageable for both her and her loved ones.
A Story of Strength and Inspiration
As she completes her treatment, this young girl’s journey stands as a testament to strength, resilience, and the power of advanced medical care. Despite facing a rare and aggressive condition at such a young age, her determination and positivity continue to inspire those around her.
Her story highlights the importance of early diagnosis, cutting-edge treatment options, and the invaluable role of family and medical professionals in battling pediatric cancers. As she moves forward in her recovery, she embodies hope for countless other children and families facing similar challenges.