Optic Nerve Atrophy Stem Cell Treatment in Somalia

Optic Nerve Atrophy is a leading cause of irreversible vision loss seen in Somalia, often linked to glaucoma, trauma (including conflict-related injury), or nutritional and infectious causes that go undiagnosed until vision loss is advanced. Specialist ophthalmology and retina services are concentrated at a small number of hospitals and eye clinics in Mogadishu. Stem Cell Cure India works with Somali patients exploring stem cell therapy as an option to discuss alongside conventional ophthalmology care.

Why Somali Patients Consider This Option

Advanced retina and optic nerve diagnostics — such as OCT imaging and visual field testing — are available only in a very small number of Mogadishu facilities, and most patients outside the capital are diagnosed only after significant vision has already been lost. Somali patients increasingly explore India for specialist ophthalmology input and regenerative treatment options that are not available at home.

Optometrist performing eye exam using phoropter on elderly man in clinic.

Meet Your Treatment Team

Dr. Prashant Tyagi

M. Tech/PhD-Biotechnology
(Stem Cell Researcher)

13-14 Years Experience in Regenerative Medicine

Dr. Tyagi leads the regenerative medicine protocol design at Stem Cell Cure India, overseeing stem cell sourcing, lab processing, and treatment planning for patients — including those travelling from Nigeria .

Areas of focus:

Regenerative Medicine Operations Stem Cell Research Patient Guidance Lab Management

Dr. Pallavee

Senior Consultant — Ophthalmologist & Eye Surgeon MBBS (University of Gauhati), MS Ophthalmology (University of Gauhati)

26+ Years Experience

Dr. Pallavee brings over two decades of clinical ophthalmology experience, supporting the eye-specific evaluation and treatment planning for patients undergoing stem cell therapy for retinal and optic nerve conditions at Stem Cell Cure India

Areas of focus:

Cataract surgery cornea specialist glaucoma care refractive surgery.

Dr. Robin

Consultant Ophthalmologist & Eye Surgeon

16+ Years MD, DO

Specialist in advanced cataract surgery, refractive surgery, and Corneal Cross-Linking for Keratoconus with extensive clinical experience.

Cataract Surgery Refractive Surgery Keratoconus

Dr. Pawan

Associate Professor | Vitreo-Retina Surgeon

10+ Years ROP Expert

Experienced cataract and vitreo-retina surgeon with expertise in retinal disorders, diabetic retinopathy, and advanced retina procedures.

Retina Surgery Cataract ROP


How Stem Cell Therapy May Help

Mesenchymal Stem Cells (MSCs) are being studied for their potential to support the surrounding neural environment of the optic nerve and reduce inflammation. Stem cell therapy does not reverse optic nerve tissue that has already died, so outcomes depend heavily on how much residual nerve function remains at the time of treatment. It is offered as a complementary option, not a guaranteed restoration of vision.

Is This Treatment Right for You?

Suitability depends on the specific condition and its stage. Before travelling, our team reviews:

  • Recent OCT (Optical Coherence Tomography) scan and visual field test results
  • Documented cause of optic nerve atrophy, if known (glaucoma, trauma, ischemic, other)
  • Current visual acuity in each eye
  • Time since vision loss began and rate of progression

Travelling from Somalia — What to Expect

  • Flights: There are no direct flights between Somalia and India. Ethiopian Airlines via Addis Ababa is the most commonly used route (Mogadishu–Addis Ababa–Delhi, approx. 10–14 hours total with one stop); Qatar Airways via Doha and Turkish Airlines via Istanbul are widely used alternatives. Total journey time typically ranges 10–20 hours depending on the routing chosen.
  • Visa: India does not currently have a resident diplomatic mission in Mogadishu. Somali citizens apply for the Indian Medical Visa through the Embassy of India in Addis Ababa (Ethiopia) or the High Commission of India in Nairobi (Kenya); periodic consular camps are also held in Mogadishu. Our team assists with the invitation letter, hospital referral documentation, and required paperwork for the application.
  • Cost guidance: Treatment packages are quoted in USD, which is widely used alongside the Somali Shilling (SOS) for larger payments in Somalia; approximate SOS equivalents are available on request.
  • Language: Somalia's official languages are Somali and Arabic. All consultations and medical reports are provided in English, and Somali-speaking interpreter support can be arranged on request.

What Your Visit Includes

  • Remote pre-screening based on OCT/visual field reports shared in advance
  • In-person evaluation by our ophthalmology and regenerative medicine team
  • Diagnostic work-up including OCT imaging to assess residual nerve function and suitability
  • Stem cell therapy administered under medical supervision
  • A written follow-up plan your doctor in Somalia can continue monitoring
  • Airport pickup, accommodation assistance, and a dedicated patient coordinator throughout your stay


Frequently Asked Questions

No. Where optic nerve tissue has already died, that loss cannot be reversed. Treatment aims to support remaining nerve function; outcomes vary significantly by case.

Patients with some remaining optic nerve function and visual acuity tend to be reviewed most favourably. A recent OCT scan helps our team assess this before you travel.

A recent OCT scan, visual field test, and any records explaining the cause of vision loss.

Most patients stay 5 to 10 days, depending on diagnostics and the treatment plan.

Yes. Once treatment is confirmed, we provide the invitation and supporting documents Somali citizens need to apply for a Medical Visa.

What Our Patients Say


Source: These are real, verified Google reviews currently published on stemcellcure.in — pulled from our Google Business Profile (5.0★).

Contact Stem Cell Cure India today to share your medical history and get a personalised opinion on suitability.


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