The CAR-T Cell Therapy Program at PromiseCare Medical Group offers a revolutionary cancer treatment that utilizes the body’s immune system to target cancer cells with precision.
This innovative therapy involves genetically modifying a patient’s T cells to recognize and combat cancer cells, showing significant promise in treating blood cancers.
Following FDA approval in 2017, six treatments have demonstrated efficacy in clinical trials.
Patients undergoing this therapy are supported by multidisciplinary teams that address their physical, emotional, and logistical needs throughout the treatment process.
With a comprehensive approach, patients can better understand this groundbreaking treatment and its potential to transform their immune systems into cancer-fighting machines.
Overview
Imagine facing a cancer diagnosis, and in a single, groundbreaking treatment, your immune system is transformed into a precision cancer-fighting machine – this is the promise of CAR-T cell therapy.
This revolutionary cancer treatment genetically modifies your T cells to target and destroy cancer cells. Since its FDA approval in 2017, CAR-T therapy has been successfully used for certain blood cancers, including relapsed and refractory B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia and various lymphomas.
With CAR-T cell therapy, your T cells are collected, genetically modified in the lab, and infused back into your body over the course of a few weeks. A multidisciplinary team typically supports patients throughout the process.
What Does The Department Do?
CAR-T cell therapy has revolutionized the treatment of certain cancers, and specialized departments play a vital role in bringing this groundbreaking treatment to patients. These departments provide comprehensive care tailored to each patient’s unique needs through personalized treatment plans crafted by multidisciplinary teams of experts.
These teams manage the entire CAR-T therapy process, from initial evaluations to post-infusion monitoring and care. Patients have access to cutting-edge research and clinical trials that have contributed to the advancement and FDA approval of several CAR-T cell therapies for various blood cancers.
Departments are making a difference in several ways:
- Collaborating with researchers to advance CAR-T cell therapy and improve patient outcomes.
- Providing ongoing support and follow-up care for months to years after therapy.
- Offering access to innovative clinical trials that enhance treatment options for patients with limited alternatives.
- Fostering a culture of safety, compassion, and care that prioritizes patients’ needs.
How We Help Our Patients
Taking the first step towards healing involves determining if CAR-T cell therapy is the best course of treatment for a specific cancer diagnosis.
A medical team will work closely with the patient to assess this and, if necessary, create a tailored treatment plan unique to their needs.
From initial diagnosis to ongoing support, thorough care addresses physical, emotional, and mental well-being.
Diagnosis
The diagnostic process for CAR-T cell therapy involves a thorough evaluation of the patient’s cancer and overall health. Multiple diagnostic tests are conducted to determine the cancer type, stage, and overall health, which is essential for determining eligibility and suitability for CAR-T cell therapy.
A multidisciplinary team of experts reviews the diagnostic results to craft a treatment plan tailored to the patient’s needs. Regular follow-up care is provided to address any concerns that may arise during and after treatment.
The diagnostic process typically includes:
- A detailed initial health assessment to evaluate overall health and determine eligibility for CAR-T cell therapy.
- Advanced diagnostic tests to evaluate cancer type and stage.
- Collaboration among a multidisciplinary team to develop a personalized treatment plan.
- Continuous monitoring and follow-up care to ensure timely intervention for any emerging health concerns.
This comprehensive approach ensures patients receive a tailored treatment plan and ongoing care to address their unique needs.
Treatment Request
The treatment process for CAR-T cell therapy involves several steps. Once a diagnosis is confirmed and a personalized treatment plan is in place, the treatment team guides the patient through each step, combining innovative therapy with compassionate care to address unique needs.
A multidisciplinary team of experts trained and certified in CAR-T cell therapy management provides tailored care plans and support. The team evaluates patient eligibility and discusses treatment options.
The treatment typically spans several weeks, during which T cells are collected, genetically modified, and infused back into the body. The patient’s progress is closely monitored, and ongoing follow-up care is provided to ensure safety and well-being.
After infusion, it’s advised to remain within close proximity to medical care for intensive monitoring for at least four weeks. Throughout the journey, patients receive cutting-edge care and may have access to innovative clinical trials. The focus is on providing the best possible care for specific patient needs.
Patient Care & Support
Extensive patient care is a crucial component of CAR-T cell therapy, providing a seamless and supportive experience that addresses unique physical, emotional, and logistical needs throughout every stage of treatment.
A multidisciplinary team manages all aspects of treatment and recovery, from initial health tests to T-cell collection, infusion, and recovery. A detailed care plan facilitates continued treatment with local healthcare providers following CAR-T therapy.
To guarantee patient safety, intensive monitoring is conducted post-infusion, with frequent blood tests and imaging to assess response to therapy and manage side effects. Follow-up care is vital, and patients are advised to remain close to their treatment center for at least four weeks after CAR-T cell infusion for effective monitoring and support.
Patient support is provided throughout the treatment journey in several ways:
- Unique needs and concerns are addressed, providing emotional support and guidance every step of the way.
- Logistical challenges, from accommodations to transportation and financial assistance, are navigated with the help of the treatment team.
- Local healthcare providers are kept informed about treatment and progress.
- Access to a dedicated CAR-T cell therapy team is available for any questions or concerns.
When To See A Doctor
Persistent or worsening symptoms may indicate a need for medical attention, particularly if experiencing unexplained weight loss, persistent fatigue, or unusual pain that could indicate a relapsed or refractory cancer.
Medical advice from a specialist is essential in assessing eligibility for treatments such as immunotherapy.
If traditional treatments have been unsuccessful or a diagnosis of certain hematological malignancies has been made, an appointment should be scheduled to discuss potential benefits and risks.
Severe side effects from other cancer treatments should also be discussed. It’s crucial to monitor for specific side effects, such as fever or neurological changes, and seek prompt medical attention if these occur.
Timely intervention is necessary to ensure safety and the effectiveness of treatment.
Concerning changes in health or a worsening condition during treatment or follow-up care requires immediate medical attention.
A specialist’s assessment can determine the best course of action and help make informed decisions about treatment options, including innovative therapies that target and eliminate cancer cells.
Assessments
The journey to CAR-T cell therapy begins with a thorough health assessment, an important step in evaluating suitability for this treatment and identifying potential risks or challenges that need to be addressed.
A review of medical history, current health status, and eligibility criteria is conducted to ensure the individual is a good candidate for treatment. Blood tests, imaging studies, and possibly psychological evaluations are performed to assess mental preparedness for the intensive treatment process and potential side effects.
During this process, it’s essential to consider the following:
- The first step is being taken towards a potentially life-changing treatment.
- A healthcare team is committed to safety and well-being.
- A dedicated caregiver will be present throughout the process.
- Ongoing monitoring and follow-up assessments will help manage side effects and maintain health during and after treatment.
These assessments are crucial in determining suitability for CAR-T cell therapy and safeguarding safety throughout treatment.
Understanding overall health and potential risks allows for a treatment plan to be tailored to meet unique needs.
Consultations
Consultations play a crucial role in determining eligibility for CAR-T cell therapy.
A specialist will assess the cancer type and overall health status to evaluate the best course of action.
This collaborative process involves a thorough evaluation of the unique situation to determine eligibility and create a personalized treatment plan tailored to specific needs.
The consultation sets the stage for the next steps in the treatment journey, providing a diagnosis and a tailored plan if eligible.
Evaluation
The evaluation process for CAR-T cell therapy involves a series of in-depth consultations to assess eligibility. Specialists weigh the nuances of the cancer type and treatment history to determine the best course of action. Multiple health assessments are conducted to evaluate overall health and suitability for the therapy.
A caregiver is required to provide essential support and monitoring throughout the evaluation phase. Ongoing assessments are necessary, as any changes in health status, such as new medical conditions or alterations in cancer status, may impact eligibility for CAR-T cell infusion.
The evaluation process allows specialists to craft tailored treatment plans that maximize potential benefits and mitigate risks associated with CAR-T cell therapy. Safety is paramount, and this rigorous evaluation process ensures that the most effective treatment is received for each unique situation.
Personalized attention and support are provided throughout the evaluation process.
Cancer type and treatment history are carefully evaluated to determine the best course of action.
Health assessments confirm overall well-being.
Ongoing monitoring helps respond to any changes in health status.
Diagnosis
The diagnosis phase involves in-depth consultations with a multidisciplinary team of specialists. During these consultations, the team assesses the condition, conducts tests, and discusses the potential benefits and risks of CAR-T cell therapy.
Patients undergo extensive health assessments to determine the best treatment approach, particularly for relapsed or refractory cancers. This is an opportunity to discuss eligibility for CAR-T cell therapy and how it can help the body’s T cells target cancer cells.
Patients can ask questions and gain an understanding of the clinical trials that have contributed to the development of CAR-T cell therapies. Caregivers are encouraged to attend, provide support, and participate in treatment planning and ongoing care discussions.
A clear understanding of the diagnosis and treatment options empowers patients to make informed decisions about their care. Patient safety is paramount, and healthcare teams are committed to providing the best possible treatment for each individual’s condition.
Request For A Treatment Plan
The journey toward CAR-T cell therapy begins with a request for a personalized treatment plan. This triggers a thorough evaluation process involving multiple consultations with specialists. These experts assess eligibility for CAR-T therapy, taking into account medical history, current health status, and cancer specifics.
A trusted caregiver’s involvement is invaluable during these consultations, providing emotional support and helping grasp the intricacies of the treatment journey. Discussions will cover CAR-T cell therapy‘s potential risks and benefits, tailored to unique needs.
The consultations will include:
- A thorough review of medical history to verify CAR-T therapy suitability
- Open discussions about potential risks and side effects
- A detailed treatment plan customized to specific needs and health goals
- Ongoing support and monitoring to adjust the plan as needed
Through these consultations, patients gain a deeper understanding of CAR-T cell therapy and feel empowered to make informed decisions about treatment.
Treatments
Within the domain of hematological malignancies, CAR-T cell therapy has emerged as a groundbreaking treatment option, harnessing the power of a patient’s immune system to combat aggressive forms of blood cancers.
T cells are collected, genetically modified in a lab to sharpen their cancer-fighting skills, and then infused back into the body after a preparatory chemotherapy regimen.
CAR-T therapy has proven to be a game-changer, with six FDA-approved treatments since 2017 demonstrating remarkable efficacy in treating various types of blood cancers. This innovative treatment approach has shown significant promise in clinical trials, offering new hope for patients with blood cancers.
Patients undergoing CAR-T therapy require close monitoring and care, as well as a dedicated caregiver, to manage potential side effects during the recovery period, which typically lasts at least four weeks post-infusion.
With CAR-T therapy, patients can tap into the potential of their immune system to fight cancer.
Procedures
The journey through CAR-T cell therapy involves a multifaceted process that begins with the essential step of harvesting T cells. This procedure requires several hours in an outpatient setting. This is where T cells are collected and sent off to be genetically modified to enhance their ability to locate and destroy cancer cells.
Interim chemotherapy may be required before these supercharged T cells are infused through an IV. T-cell collection typically takes about 4-5 hours in an outpatient setting. The modified T cells are engineered and multiplied in a lab over several weeks.
The infusion process is followed by intensive monitoring and follow-up to manage potential side effects. Patients need to stay close to the treatment center for at least four weeks post-infusion for ongoing care and observation.
Throughout this process, patients are actively involved in their therapy, working closely with their medical team to guarantee the best possible outcome. Safety and well-being are top priorities; every step is taken to minimize risks and maximize results.
Patient Resources
Patients undergoing CAR-T cell therapy have access to a wide range of resources designed to educate, support, and empower them throughout their treatment journey. A multidisciplinary team of experts is available to address any concerns or questions. Caregivers are vital in providing essential support and assistance during multiple appointments and post-infusion care.
Resources are tailored to individual needs, offering educational materials, support services, and ongoing monitoring to ensure safety and well-being. After discharge, detailed care plans are provided to continue treatment with a local healthcare provider, ensuring seamless follow-up care.
Multilingual support is also available, providing access to information on CAR-T cell therapy in multiple languages and breaking down language barriers to enhance understanding. Patients can confidently and clearly navigate their treatment journey with these resources available.
