CAR-T Cell Therapy

What is CAR-T cell therapy?

CAR-T cell therapy is a type of immunotherapy that treats various types of blood cancer. Immunotherapy is a treatment that involves training your immune system to seek out and destroy cancer cells. It involves taking some of your white blood cells, known as T-cells, and engineering them to identify and target cancer. A specialist will then transfer these modified cells back into your bloodstream, where they work to recognise and fight the cancer. 

What types of blood cancer can CAR-T cell therapy treat?

CAR-T cell therapy can help treat the following forms of blood cancer:

• diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL)

• high-grade B-cell lymphoma

• mantle cell lymphoma

• primary mediastinal large B-cell lymphoma

• follicular lymphoma

• multiple myeloma

• B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (B-ALL)

How does CAR-T cell therapy work?

The immune system consists of cells and organs that help protect you from infections and diseases, including cancer. A key part of your immune system is a type of white blood cell known as T-cells or T-lymphocytes.

CAR-T cell therapy is an innovative, personalised treatment that helps boost your immune system’s ability to fight certain blood cancers. It involves taking healthy T-cells from your blood and reprogramming them in a lab to create special receptors known as chimeric antigen receptors (CARs). The cells are then transferred back to your body via intravenous infusion. These modified cells are able to recognise and attack the cancer cells.

As with many procedures, there can be some side effects with CAR-T cell therapy which include:

• cytokine release syndrome

• neurotoxicity syndrome (ICANS)

• infections

We have the skills and expertise to ensure the best care throughout the procedure and your recovery afterwards. Your consultant will walk you through these considerations to make sure the treatment best suits your needs. 

What is the treatment process for CAR-T cell therapy?

Our leading haematology consultants are experienced in CAR-T cell therapy and will oversee your treatment at Hammersmith hospital, London. 

The treatment generally involves staying in the hospital for two to three weeks. We follow strict safety and quality controls throughout the procedure to ensure the best care.

Here is a general step-by-step overview of what you can expect from CAR-T cell therapy:

1. Consultation: Our specialists will meet with you to discuss your condition and determine whether CAR-T cell therapy is right for you. They will explain the process and potential risks in further detail. They will also advise on how to prepare for the procedure.

2. Cell collection: T cells are collected from your blood through a process called leukapheresis. It involves inserting a small tube into one vein in the arm to collect the cells before returning the rest of your blood via another tube in your other arm. This usually takes around two hours and is not painful.

3. Cell modification: The T cells are carefully transported to a special lab. There, they undergo genetic modification to target cancer cells.

4. Bridging therapy:In some cases, particularly for aggressive lymphoma, you may require further treatment with steroids, chemotherapy and/or radiotherapy during the period of a few weeks whilst the CAR-T cells are being manufactured, in order to control your cancer as a ‘bridge’ to starting CAR-T cell therapy.

5. Lymphodepletion A short course of chemotherapy is given during the week before CAR-T cells are infused, in order to make space for them to grow and work effectively. This is called lymphodepletion chemotherapy.

6. Infusion: The modified T-cells are infused back into your bloodstream, where they can begin fighting the cancer.

7. Monitoring and support: Our team will closely monitor your progress and provide ongoing care and support throughout your treatment.

Why choose us for CAT-T cell therapy?

Hammersmith Hospital is a leading centre for the treatment of blood cancers, with strong expertise in cellular therapies. 

Our multidisciplinary team comprises a group of medical professionals specialising in different areas of expertise. We work together to share best practices and innovative methods.

You will benefit from personalised care that meets your needs. We make your sure your wellbeing and recovery is key.

Our CAR-T cell therapy procedure and aftercare assures a consistent and streamlined experience.

Find out more about CAR-T cell therapy:

If you have any questions about CAR-T cell therapy or would like to schedule a consultation, you can contact us in the following ways:

Call: +44 (0) 20 3311 7700
Email: imperial.private.healthcare@nhs.net