Katra,
August 2026
Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Narayana Superspeciality Hospital, Kakryal-Katra, has successfully diagnosed and treated a rare case of Hairy Cell Leukemia, highlighting the importance of timely diagnosis and specialised blood cancer care within the region.The patient, a middle-aged CRPF personnel from Rajasthan, presented with prolonged fatigue, anaemia, low platelet and white blood cell counts, along with significant enlargement of the spleen. Advanced investigations, including bone marrow examination, immunophenotyping and molecular testing for the BRAF V600E mutation, confirmed Hairy Cell Leukemia—a rare, slow-growing blood cancer affecting approximately 0.3 persons per 100,000 population.The patient was treated with appropriate chemotherapy under the care of Dr. Deepika Gupta, Clinical Hematologist and Haemato-Oncologist. Following treatment, his blood counts recovered, the spleen returned to normal size and he achieved complete remission. He is now doing well and remains under regular follow-up.Dr. Deepika Gupta said, “Symptoms such as persistent fatigue, recurrent infections, low blood counts and enlargement of the spleen should not be ignored. Although Hairy Cell Leukemia is rare, it is highly treatable when diagnosed correctly and managed at the right time.”Commenting on the achievement, Dr. Yashpal Sharma, Executive Director, Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Institute of Medical Excellence, said, “This successful treatment reflects the vision and continued support of the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board in strengthening advanced healthcare services and bringing specialised, life-saving treatment closer to the people.”The case also highlights the growing capabilities of blood cancer services under Dr. Deepika Gupta, the only specialised Haemato-Oncologist in the region, enabling patients with leukemia, lymphoma, multiple myeloma and other complex blood disorders to receive specialised treatment closer to home.As a comprehensive trauma-ready facility, Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Narayana Superspeciality Hospital is supported by advanced diagnostics, critical-care infrastructure and 24×7 emergency services, and remains committed to providing advanced, accessible and timely healthcare across Jammu & Kashmir and neighbouring regions.
