Multiple sclerosis is a chronic disease that affects the CNS (central nervous system). It is hard to know that multiple sclerosis (MS) is a long-lasting disease with no definite cure. But with that said, MS isn’t fatal, and most patients have an average lifespan.
You may be surprised to know females are thrice more likely to develop multiple sclerosis than males. There are more than 25,00,000 cases of MS worldwide. Most people being diagnosed with MS are in the age bracket of 20 to 50.
India offers different types of treatment options for multiple sclerosis patients. Alternative treatment options are also available, like yoga and meditation. The country is known for providing holistic care to patients. Multiple sclerosis treatment Cost in India starts from INR 10,21,200.
In this blog, we will answer all your questions regarding the cost of MS treatment in India and how it is affected by different factors.
What is Multiple Sclerosis?
Multiple sclerosis is a neurological disease that is chronic in nature. It can affect both the brain and the spinal cord. It is an autoimmune disease characterized by damage to the myelin sheath and gradual disabilities.
There are four types of MS according to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society.
- Clinically Isolated Syndrome: CIS or clinically isolated syndrome is the first appearance of neurological symptoms caused by demyelination of neurons. Symptoms include vertigo, blurred vision, ataxia, and bladder problems.
- Relapsing-Remitting MS: RRMS is identified by precise attacks of neurological symptoms. The attacks are also known as exacerbations or relapses. Around 80% of MS cases are diagnosed at this stage.
- Secondary Progressive MS: RRMS is followed by secondary progressive MS, characterized by worsening neurological functions. 50% of RRMS, if not treated, convert to SPMS.
- Primary Progressive MS: PPMS (Primary Progressive Multiple Sclerosis) is marked by worsening symptoms. Around 10-20% of multiple sclerosis cases develop into PPMS.
What Treatment Options are Available for Multiple Sclerosis in India?
Although there is no definite cure for multiple sclerosis, therapies are available to slow down the disease progression and manage symptoms.
- Treatment for Multiple Sclerosis Attacks: Different types of therapies are available to manage the attacks of MS.
- Corticosteroids: Steroids like prednisolone are prescribed to MS patients to reduce inflammation of nerves and manage MS attacks.
- Plasmapheresis: Plasmapheresis, known as plasma exchange, is used when attacks are not managed by steroids. Plasma exchange is beneficial when symptoms are new and severe.
- Disease-Modifying Therapy: Disease-modifying drugs prevent the body’s immune system from attacking the myelin sheath delay the disease’s progression. Disease-Modifying Therapy includes oral, injectable, and infusion drugs.
- Injectable medicines: Beta-interferon, Glatiramer acetate
- Oral medicines: Siponimod, Dimethyl Fumarate, Teriflunomide.and
- Infusion medicines: Natalizumab, Natalizumab, Alemtuzumab.
How Much Does Multiple Sclerosis Treatment Cost in India?
The cost of multiple sclerosis treatment in India ranges from INR 10,21,200 to INR 13,61,600. International patients can avail of MS treatment for USD 20700 – USD 25300.
The patient needs to stay in the hospital for 2-3 days, and the exact cost depends upon the type of multiple sclerosis, type of therapy received, type of hospital and room, etc.
Breakdown of Costs
Investigations:
- Contrast MRI brain and cervical spine – INR 20000
- Visual evoked potential (VEP) – INR 2000
- CSF analysis – INR 8000
- Ancillary investigations like autoimmune encephalitis panel – INR 40000
Treatment costs:
- Pulse IV steroid therapy for five days – INR 70000
- Hospital stay costs – INR 25000
- Beta-interferon – INR 30,000
- Glatiramer acetate – INR 20,000
- Natalizumab – INR 1,40,800
- Teriflunomide – INR 2,90,000
City-wise Cost Comparison of Multiple Sclerosis Treatment in India
- New Delhi: INR 8,62,914 to INR 13,49,686
- Chennai: INR 8,85,040 to INR 12,72,245
- Mumbai: INR 9,07,166 to INR 13,49,686
- Bangalore: INR 8,62,914 to INR 13,05,434
- Kolkata: INR 8,29,725 to INR 12,50,119
- Ahmedabad: INR 7,41,221 to INR 12,27,993
- Hyderabad: INR 8,51,851 to INR 12,94,371
What is Included in the Treatment Cost of Multiple Sclerosis?
The treatment cost of MS in India includes –
- Preoperative diagnostic Tests: Includes the cost of diagnostic tests such as Neurological tests and general examination.
- Consultation charges: It is the fees of the neurologist treating the patient.
- Medicine cost: Cost of corticosteroids and disease-modifying drugs.
- Stay at the hospital: It includes the patient’s hospitalization charges.
- Miscellaneous charges: Includes the cost of medicines and therapies required after discharge and follow-up charges.
What Factors Determine the Cost of Multiple Sclerosis Treatment in India?
The overall cost of treating MS in India depends on the patient’s condition and preferences. Some of the factors affecting the cost of treatment are –
- Type of hospital: Private hospital or government owned.
- Type of room: General ward, twin sharing, or single occupancy.
- Additional tests required: If any additional tests are needed, then the overall cost of treatment increases.
- Accommodation cost for follow-ups: If you are traveling from far away, you’ll be required to take local accommodation for the follow-ups.
- Complications: Any complications arising during or after therapy may require additional treatment and would increase the final bill.
- An extended stay at the hospital: If, for any reason, you are required to stay at the hospital for more days, the cost of treatment will increase.
List of Best Doctors for Multiple Sclerosis Treatment in India
If you are looking for the best neurologists for multiple sclerosis treatment in India, here is the list:
- Dr. Mohit Bhatt: Dr. Mohit Bhatt is one of the top Neurologists in India with an experience of 32+ years. He has expertise in multiple sclerosis treatment, deep brain stimulation, neurogenetic disorders, dystonia, and tremors.
- Dr. Pravina Shah: Dr. Pravina Shah is a well-known Neurologist who has been practicing for 45+ years in India. She is an expert in performing gamma knife surgery, brain tumor surgery, vascular surgery, ADHD treatment, and MS treatment.
- Dr. Chandran Gnanamuthu: Dr. Chandran is a renowned Neurologist in India with an extensive experience of 38+ years. His specialty includes treating multiple sclerosis, neurological infections, nervous system inflammation, and para-infectious syndromes.
- Dr. Sudhir Kumar: With an experience of 17+ years, Dr. Sudhir Kumar is an eminent Neurologist in India. He specializes in neuromuscular disorders, multiple sclerosis, craniotomy, and brain mapping.
- Dr. A.K. Roy: Dr. A.K. Roy is a leading Neurologist in India who has been practicing as a specialist for the past 44 years. He specializes in treating multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s, fibromyalgia, and dementia.
To conclude, India offers multiple sclerosis treatment at prices much lower than other developed nations. India offers high-quality medical care and world-class diagnostic facilities at reasonable prices. It is one of the most chosen medical destinations for people looking for multiple sclerosis treatment.
