Thalassemia & Primary Immunodeficiency Disorders
Specialized Pediatric Care by Dr. Shobha Badiger – One of India’s Leading Hemato-Oncologists
Thalassemia and Primary Immunodeficiency Disorders (PIDs) are serious, often inherited conditions that affect a child’s blood and immune system. At Mazumdar Shaw Medical Centre, Narayana Health City, Bangalore, Dr. Shobha Badiger offers expert care for these complex disorders with a compassionate and personalized approach.
With over 2000 successful bone marrow transplants and vast experience treating children across Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and South India, Dr. Shobha is known for her clinical excellence and dedication.
What is Thalassemia?
Thalassemia is a genetic blood disorder where the body produces abnormal or insufficient hemoglobin. It results in chronic anemia and, in severe cases, may require lifelong blood transfusions or a bone marrow transplant for cure.
What are Primary Immunodeficiency Disorders (PIDs)?
PIDs are a group of over 400 rare, inherited conditions where a child’s immune system is defective or absent. These disorders result in recurrent infections, immune dysfunction, and life-threatening complications if untreated.
Symptoms to Watch Out For
Thalassemia:
- Pale or yellowish skin (jaundice)
- Chronic fatigue and weakness
- Poor growth or delayed puberty
- Enlarged spleen or liver
- Need for frequent blood transfusions
- Facial bone deformities (in severe cases)
Primary Immunodeficiency Disorders:
- Frequent, recurrent infections (respiratory, skin, ear, etc.)
- Poor response to antibiotics
- Growth retardation
- Persistent or unusual viral, fungal, or bacterial infections
- Family history of early infant deaths or immune conditions
- Autoimmune symptoms like rashes, joint pain, or chronic diarrhea
Causes of Thalassemia and PIDs
Thalassemia: Inherited mutations in the hemoglobin-producing genes, commonly seen in South Asian populations.
PIDs: Genetic defects affecting T-cells, B-cells, phagocytes, or complement proteins of the immune system.
Both conditions can be diagnosed through early screening, genetic testing, and specialized blood tests—especially in families with a known history.
Precautions & Preventive Measures
- Prenatal and family genetic counseling
- Routine newborn screening and early diagnosis
- Avoid live vaccines in children with suspected or confirmed PIDs
- Iron chelation therapy for transfusion-dependent thalassemia
- Preventive antibiotics and immunoglobulin therapy for PIDs
- Regular follow-up with a pediatric hematologist or immunologist
Treatment Options Offered by Dr. Shobha Badiger
For Thalassemia:
- Regular blood transfusions
- Iron chelation therapy
- Monitoring for iron overload and organ function
- Bone Marrow Transplantation (curative treatment)
- Genetic counseling and family screening
For PIDs:
- Immunoglobulin replacement therapy (IVIG/SCIG)
- Antibiotic prophylaxis
- Hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (BMT)
- Management of autoimmune complications
- Supportive care including nutrition and psychosocial support
All treatments are provided in a child-friendly, multidisciplinary setting with international-quality infrastructure at Narayana Health City.
When to Consult a Specialist
- Your child has been diagnosed with thalassemia, PID, or chronic anemia
- There's a family history of blood or immune disorders
- Your child experiences frequent infections or hospitalizations
- You are considering curative options like bone marrow transplant
- Your pediatrician recommends specialist evaluation for genetic or immune conditions
Why Choose Dr. Shobha Badiger for Thalassemia & PID Treatment in Bangalore?
- 15+ years of pediatric hemato-oncology experience
- 2000+ bone marrow transplants including haploidentical & unrelated donor procedures
- Specialized in treating thalassemia and PIDs across Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Andhra Pradesh
- Member of national and international pediatric study and ethics boards
- Focus on early diagnosis, family education, and long-term care
- Certified in hospital management, infection control, and pediatric ethics
- Child-focused, multilingual care approach to ensure comfort and communication
Book an Appointment with Dr. Shobha Badiger
Looking for expert care for Thalassemia or Primary Immunodeficiency Disorders in children? Connect with one of Bangalore’s most trusted pediatric hematologists and transplant specialists.
Location: Mazumdar Shaw Medical Centre, Narayana Health City, Bangalore
Call: 080 67506836
FAQs – Thalassemia & PIDs
- Q. Can thalassemia be cured?
- Yes, thalassemia can be cured with bone marrow transplant, especially when done at an early stage in children.
- Q. Are PIDs treatable?
- Yes. Many types of PIDs can be managed effectively through immunoglobulin therapy or cured with bone marrow transplantation.
- Q. Is genetic counseling important?
- Absolutely. Genetic counseling helps in early detection, family planning, and preventing recurrence in families with a history of blood or immune disorders.
Empowering Children with Lifesaving Care – Choose Dr. Shobha Badiger for Thalassemia & PID Treatment in Bangalore.
