ADSCC Achieves UAE's First Successful Paediatric Ovarian Preservation

The Abu Dhabi Stem Cells Centre (ADSCC) has achieved a significant milestone by performing the UAE's first ovarian preservation procedure on a 7-year-old Emirati girl diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia. This procedure was done in collaboration with ART Fertility Clinic, showcasing ADSCC's dedication to innovative care and advanced paediatric oncology.

The young patient had a challenging medical journey as her leukaemia was resistant to initial chemotherapy and conventional treatments. Her condition stabilised with targeted therapy, but ADSCC's paediatric haematologists determined that a bone marrow transplant was necessary for a definitive cure. The patient's half-matched brother served as the donor.

Recognising the fertility risks associated with high-dose chemotherapy and total body irradiation required for the transplant, ADSCC experts opted for ovarian tissue cryopreservation (OTC). With the consent of the patient’s parents, they collaborated with ART Fertility Clinic to perform this procedure. The ovary was removed, processed, and preserved at ART Fertility Clinic in Abu Dhabi.

Dr. Rashid Obaid Al Suwaidi, Executive Director of the Healthcare Workforce Sector at the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi (DoH), commented on this achievement: "Abu Dhabi’s healthcare sector has made significant strides in enhancing the health and well-being of the Emirate's community and beyond." He highlighted that pioneering strategies, advanced infrastructure, and a talented workforce enabled such remarkable milestones.

The ovarian tissue was cut into thin strips and treated with cryoprotective agents to protect cells during freezing. The tissue is then slowly cooled and stored at very low temperatures, typically in liquid nitrogen at around -196°C (-320.8°F) for at least 20 years. This process allows for potential future reimplantation to restore fertility.

Dr. Maysoon Al Karam, Chief Medical Officer at Abu Dhabi Stem Cells Centre, stated: "This incredible milestone not only represents the advancements in paediatric oncology and fertility preservation but also aligns with our vision to lead in cutting-edge medical practices and patient-centred care within our Abu Dhabi Bone Marrow Transplant Programme (AD-BMT). By providing our paediatric cancer patients with fertility preservation options as they grow older, such as ovarian cryopreservation, we are offering solutions for female cancer patients, both pre- and post-puberty, whose treatments may impact future fertility. Additionally, for post-puberty male patients, we continue to explore alternative options while scientific studies advance our understanding of suitable solutions for pre-puberty male patients."

Commitment to Patient Care

This breakthrough underscores ADSCC's commitment to improving patient outcomes and quality of life through innovative care. It also strengthens Abu Dhabi's position as a global leader in healthcare by contributing to continuous healthcare milestones within the Emirate.

OTC is one of the latest techniques worldwide that offers promising potential for preserving fertility if ovaries are affected by chemotherapy or radiation treatment. This advanced process ensures that young patients have options for maintaining their fertility in the future.

The success of this procedure highlights ADSCC's role in advancing paediatric oncology care while prioritising patient-centred approaches. It reflects their ongoing efforts to provide comprehensive solutions for young cancer patients facing complex medical challenges.

This achievement marks another step forward in Abu Dhabi's healthcare sector's mission to enhance community health and well-being through innovative medical practices and advanced treatments.

With inputs from WAM