CAR T Cell Therapy Step-by-Step

Step 4: After Your Treatment

Initial Monitoring and Follow-Up

Your CAR T cells will get to work right away after infusion. Some early side effects may occur, which could feel like a bad case of the flu. In some cases, more serious side effects may occur that your healthcare team is trained to monitor and manage.

initial monitoring

You will need to be closely monitored for several weeks post treatment and it’s important to be aware of driving restrictions during this period.  Your team may want you to have a caregiver to help support you during this time. Common signs and symptoms to look out for include:

  • Fever

  • Difficulty breathing

  • Rapid heart rate

  • Headaches

  • Tremors

  • Confusion

If you and your caregiver notice any symptoms, make sure to notify your CAR T treatment team as soon as possible so they can manage any side effects. The day you receive your CAR T cells, you may remain in the hospital or be discharged, depending on what you and your doctor decide is best.

It is important to note that there are different CAR T treatment options, and each may have different side effects, including the types of side effects, when they occur, and their severity. Therefore, you may want to discuss these effects with your doctor when choosing which CAR T cell therapy option is right for you.

Life After CAR T Cell Therapy

After the close monitoring period, you will return home and to your local doctor. Because the CAR T cells can persist long after treatment, you will continue to be monitored for side effects, disease status, and other cancers long after treatment.

initial monitoring

As you return to your life following the CAR T therapy process, your CAR T cells may continue to work inside you long after treatment.

As time passes, your follow-up appointments may become less frequent and:

  • You will be monitored life-long for side effects of CAR T cell therapy
  • Your doctor will provide instruction regarding:
    • Frequency of ongoing appointments
    • Any tests, procedures, or medications to monitor your disease and/or assess or treat any side effects
  • You may not need additional cancer treatment while responding to CAR T cell therapy

 Your Team

May consist of:

  • Medical Oncologist
  • Specialized Nurse(s)
  • Caregiver

 Estimated Duration

  • Close monitoring: Several weeks
  • Long-term monitoring: Life long

How You Can Prepare

 

To prepare for the monitoring period following CAR T cell therapy infusion, you may consider the following:

  • Ensure your caregiver is available to be with you during the 4 weeks following CAR T cell therapy infusion
  • Plan for transportation, or time off from work, as patients are advised to refrain from driving or hazardous activities for at least 8 weeks following CAR T cell therapy infusion
  • Arrange for any medications you take to be prepared at your pharmacy
  • Consider a notebook or log for you and your caregiver to track any symptoms you may experience so your doctor can manage your ongoing care

Your Resources

The CAR T Cell Therapy Process

Learn more about the CAR T cell therapy treatment process and possible side effects in this step-by-step guide.

Symptom Guide

Refer to this guide to know what to do if you experience certain symptoms of CAR T cell therapy side effects.