Baby Brother's Stem Cells can be Used for Treating Older Brothers' Cancer

Stem cells harvested from an infant's umbilical cord may be used to save the life of the baby's 3-year old brother who is suffering from cancer.3-year old Nathan Shorey was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia in 2010 and may need a stem cell transplant if his condition deteriorates. Fortunately the stem cells from the umbilical cord of his younger brother, Samuel, when tested were found to be a match.

Nathan developed a rash on his thighs and arm, so his mother took him to Wansbeck General Hospital. After a blood test and overnight stay at the hospital, Nathan was transferred to North Tyneside General Hospital where he was diagnosed with leukemia. For the first 6-months after the diagnosis he was in hospital for most of the time. However, he is now doing well and has 19-months of maintenance chemotherapy remaining at Newcastle's Royal Victoria Infirmary.

Parents Melanie and Michael, now hope the stem cells can be used to treat Nathan's condition.

Source-Medindia