Liv Hospital Ulus in Istanbul, Turkey provides full-spectrum care for retinoblastoma, a childhood eye cancer. An initial consultation with an oncologist costs around $120, while key treatments like intra-arterial chemotherapy cost around $6,000 and radioactive plate brachytherapy runs around $18,000. The clinic is accredited by JCI and organizes its care through a dedicated multi-specialty team.
Comprehensive Diagnostic Process
Accurate diagnosis is the first critical step. The clinic offers a full range of specialized tests to stage the disease. These help determine if the cancer is confined to the eye or has spread. Key diagnostics include:
- Eye examination under general anesthesia: This detailed exam allows for a safe and thorough assessment of the tumor in children.
- Imaging studies: Angiography provides detailed images of the blood vessels in and around the tumor.
- Systemic evaluation: Tests like a bone marrow biopsy and tumor marker blood tests check for cancer spread.
- Specialist consultations: Meetings with pediatric oncologists and radiologists are part of the planning.
Advanced Treatment Options
Treatment is tailored to the specific case to save the eye and vision whenever possible. Liv Hospital Ulus offers several modern approaches. Assoc. Prof. Dr. Derda Özer, a specialist in eye diseases and surgery, is part of the treating team.
The main treatment methods include:
- Intra-arterial chemotherapy: Medicine is delivered directly into the artery feeding the eye tumor. This targeted approach minimizes exposure to the rest of the body. A session typically involves a 4-day hospital stay.
- Systemic chemotherapy: This uses intravenous drugs to treat cancer throughout the body. It is often given in monthly cycles, with each requiring a 3-4 day hospitalization.
- Radioactive plate brachytherapy: A small radioactive plate is placed directly on the tumor inside the eye. It delivers precise, high-dose radiation while sparing healthy tissue. The procedure involves a 3-4 day hospital stay for monitoring.
Patient Care and Support
The hospital supports international patients throughout their journey. Services include free airport transfers and interpreter assistance. The comprehensive treatment packages cover hospital stays and necessary follow-up care. This creates a streamlined experience for families traveling from abroad.
Discussing all available options with the medical team is essential to create the best individual plan.
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