Narayana Health SRCC Children’s Hospital Gives Toddler a New Lease of Life

Mumbai, June 13

In a powerful testimony to the expertise and compassionate care provided at SRCC Children’s Hospital, managed by Narayana Health, a baby boy has successfully completed an intensive year-long treatment journey for a rare brain tumour. Diagnosed at just six months of age, Baby is now a healthy 2.5-year-old, thriving under the guidance of the hospital’s world-class paediatric neuro-oncology team.

The patient’s story is one of resilience, determination, and medical excellence. When his parents noticed multiple dark spots on his body and delayed neck holding at six months, they consulted multiple experts and even underwent an MRI brain scan that revealed a large tumour in the posterior fossa—a critical area at the base of the brain. After being advised by various doctors to consider end-of-life care, they found hope at SRCC Children’s Hospital.

The boy was brought to the outpatient department and attended to by Dr. Saurav Samantray, Senior Consultant - Paediatric Neurosurgery at Narayana Health SRCC Childrens Hospital, Mumbai who led the evaluation and treatment. The Neuro-Oncology Multidisciplinary Team (MDT) at the hospital promptly reviewed his MRI brain and spine. Further genetic tests were conducted in coordination with SickKids, Toronto, Canada, helping confirm a precise diagnosis and chart out the best course of action.

In July 2023, Baby underwent a complete surgical resection of the tumour. This was followed by a carefully tailored chemotherapy regimen—both systemic and intraventricular chemotherapy—administered between August 2023 and May 2024.

The journey, however, was far from simple. As a small infant, Baby presented several challenges for the surgical and medical teams. The surgery required microscopic precision and advanced anaesthetic planning to minimise complications. Administering chemotherapy to such a young and low-weight child was another hurdle. During the course of treatment, Baby developed obstructive hydrocephalus, a condition that required urgent VP shunt insertion to drain fluid from the brain.

Ordinarily, this might have prevented continuation of intraventricular chemotherapy—a critical part of his treatment. However, the team at Narayana Health SRCC Children's Hospital, showcasing their technical expertise and commitment, opted for a programmable shunt that allowed the original chemotherapy plan to proceed uninterrupted. This crucial decision gave Baby the best possible chance at a cure.

After multiple admissions and round-the-clock multidisciplinary care, Baby has now completed his treatment. Today, he is growing well, achieving developmental milestones, and enjoying a vibrant childhood that once seemed uncertain.

Dr. Saurav Samantray, Senior Consultant-Paediatric Neurosurgery, Narayana Health SRCC Children’s Hospital, Mumbai, "Baby’s case reminds us why timely referral to a specialised paediatric health centre is crucial. With the right resources, expertise, and a committed team, we were able to provide curative treatment even in the face of difficult odds. Seeing him recover and thrive is the greatest reward for all of us."

Dr. Kriti Hedge, Consultant Paediatric Oncology, Narayana Health SRCC Children’s Hospital, Mumbai Said, “The patient was diagnosed with a rare and aggressive brain tumour in infancy—a condition that often goes unnoticed until symptoms progress. His case highlights the importance of early neurological evaluation in young children. At NH SRCC, our multidisciplinary team approach ensured timely diagnosis, precise surgery, and advanced chemotherapy, giving him the best possible chance at recovery. We urge parents to seek medical advice early if they notice developmental delays or unusual signs.’’

Dr. Zubin Pereira, Facility Director at Narayana Health SRCC Children’s Hospital, said, “This remarkable case underscores the dedication and collaborative strength of Narayana Health SRCC Children’s Hospital in treating even the rarest and most complex paediatric conditions with excellence.

EoM.