Gaza child receives life-saving transplant in Abu Dhabi

In a powerful demonstration of the UAE’s steadfast commitment to Gaza, Yas Clinic in Khalifa City has successfully discharged a young Palestinian patient following a life-saving bone marrow transplant conducted under the direct medical supervision of Abu Dhabi Stem Cells Centre (ADSCC).

This is part of the UAE's humanitarian efforts under the directives of its wise leadership to support the people of Gaza, reflecting an unwavering dedication to providing world-class healthcare to those in need.

The child, who had been admitted for seven months, was diagnosed with DADA-2 deficiency, a rare and severe immunodeficiency that had caused repeated infections and critical complications.

Upon admission, the patient required prolonged care in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) due to the complexity of his condition.

With strong support from hospital leadership and the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi, his sister was able to travel from Gaza to serve as his matched donor. The transplant was performed last month and, despite a challenging post-operative course, the patient showed incredible resilience and was recently discharged in stable condition.

“This was an extraordinary case that brought together every element of modern medicine, from genetics and immunology to critical care and transplantation,” said Dr. Maysoon Al Karam, Chief Medical Officer at Yas Clinic Khalifa City, “The commitment shown by our multidisciplinary team and our partners at ADSCC made all the difference in this child’s life.”

The case was managed by a comprehensive care team that included PICU physicians, pediatric surgeon, ENT physicians and infectious disease specialist. This case also highlights the importance of having a very strong nursing team which can handle such high risk patients. Their coordination and clinical expertise were pivotal throughout the child’s extended and complex care.

The patient has now returned home to continue his recovery, marking a hopeful new chapter for him and his family, and a proud milestone for the teams at Yas Clinic, Khalifa City and ADSCC.

WAM