MEDICAL a parent or sibling is drawn from a vein and undergoes a process called apheresis , also known as leukapheresis , to remove T-cells , which takes about 2-3 hours , while the remaining blood is returned to the body .
• Engineering the T-Cells : T cells are sent to a laboratory where they are genetically modified by adding a manufactured CAR , allowing them to become CAR T cells . These cells are then multiplied in the lab for approximately 3-4 weeks .
• Preparing for CAR T Cells therapy : 1 - 2 weeks before CAR T-cell therapy , low-dose chemotherapy is given to prepare the patient ’ s body and optimize the effectiveness of the treatment . This helps create space for the new CAR T-cells by reducing the number of other immune cells , enhancing their ability to fight cancer .
• CAR T-cells are infused into the patient ’ s arm after an adequate quantity is produced . Hospitalization for 3-4 weeks is required to closely monitor the patient ’ s condition during this time .
Who qualifies for CAR T-cell therapy ? CAR T-cell therapy is indicated for some children who have relapsed or to target refractory ( R / R ) blood cancers such as acute lymphoblastic leukemia ( ALL ), Large B cell non-Hodgkin ’ s Lymphoma , and solid tumors like neuroblastoma that haven ’ t responded to conventional treatments .
To determine if you qualify for CAR T-cell therapy , consult a pediatric oncologist who will assess your medical condition . Factors like cancer type , stage , previous treatments , and overall health will be considered . Seek expert advice and personalized guidance by scheduling an appointment .
What are the side effects of CAR T-Cell therapy ?
• Cytokine release syndrome ( CRS ) is a serious complication characterized by fever , chills , muscle pain , nausea , and low blood pressure
• Nervous system problems can occur , leading to headaches , confusion , seizures , and difficulty speaking or balancing
• Other potentially serious side effects include abnormal blood mineral levels , allergic reactions , a weakened immune system , and low blood cell counts
Experienced doctors and nursing teams specialized in CAR T-cell treatment can promptly recognize and treat symptoms . Close monitoring and adherence to a standard of care are crucial during CAR T-cell therapy to address potentially serious side effects .
Advantages of CAR T-Cell Therapy at Samitivej Children ’ s Hospital
• Expertise : Led by Professor Suradej Hongeng , M . D ., our specialized team has extensive experience in CAR T-cell therapy , stem cell transplantation , and cancer treatment . Having treated over 1,000 pediatric oncology patients and successfully performed CAR T-Cell treatments in 10 patients , including 7 pediatric cancer patients , we deliver exceptional care and outcomes . Research Contributions : Professor Suradej Hongeng ’ s groundbreaking work in CAR T-cell therapy , including the development of CD19 Chimeric Antigen Receptor ( CAR ) modified T-cells , has revolutionized the field . Learn more about his CAR T-cell therapy research here : https :// onlinelibrary . wiley . com / doi / epdf / 10.1111 / ajco . 13474 . Explore other research articles by Professor Hongeng here : https :// pubmed . ncbi . nlm . nih . gov /? term = Hongeng + S & cauthor _ id = 36427475 .
• CAR T-cell Manufacturing Facility :
Our partnership with Thailand ’ s First GMP-certified for Cell and Gene Therapy manufacturing facility ensures international standards and advanced technology for CAR-T production . Patient safety is prioritized with rigorous quality testing . Our collaboration for top-quality CAR T-cell therapy is trusted and cost-efficient , with cost decreasing 5-fold compared to outsourcing the production abroad .
• Multidisciplinary Team : Our team consists of various specialists , including Pediatric Hematologists and Oncologists , Pediatric Pulmonologists , Pediatric Cardiologists , Pediatric Psychiatrists , Pediatric Dentists , Dietitians , Pharmacists , Ward Nurses , Lab and Blood Bank Unit Technicians , Infection Control Nurses and more staff , who collaborate closely to provide comprehensive and coordinated care to children undergoing CAR T-cell therapy .
• State-of-the-Art Facilities : Samitivej Children ’ s Hospital is equipped with advanced facilities including private rooms , all of which have HEPA filters with positive pressure ventilation , supporting the delivery of CAR T-cell therapy with cutting-edge medical equipment .
• International Standard of Care : Samitivej Children ’ s Hospital has been awarded the prestigious “ Specialty Hospital of the Year ” at the 2022 Healthcare Asia Awards . This accolade is a testament to our commitment to providing international standard care to patients across Asia . Our hospital strives for excellence in delivering exceptional healthcare services , ensuring the highest level of quality and safety for our patients .
GlobalHealthAsiaPacific . com ISSUE 4 | 2023
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