CAR T Cell Therapy Step-by-Step
Step 4: After Your Treatment
In some cases, serious side effects may occur that your healthcare team is trained to monitor and manage.
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 care partner 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 care partner 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.
Long-Term Monitoring
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.
Your Team
May consist of:
- Medical Oncologist
- Specialized Nurse(s)
- Care Partner
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 care partner is available to be with you during the 2 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 2 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 care partner to track any symptoms you may experience so your doctor can manage your ongoing care
Your Resources
Learn more about monitoring after CAR T cell therapy.
Refer to this guide to know what to do if you experience certain symptoms of CAR T cell therapy side effects.