Which specialist performs CAR T-cell therapy?

CAR T-cell therapy uses immune cells collected from the patient, modified in a specialised laboratory and returned by infusion. A haematologist assesses whether the treatment fits the cancer type, previous treatment, overall health and test results. The same team plans cell collection, preparation treatment, infusion and close monitoring afterward.

Care involves more than one professional. Nurses, pharmacists, laboratory specialists, intensive care clinicians, neurologists and infectious disease clinicians may support the haematologist. The team watches for fever, low blood pressure, breathing changes and neurological symptoms, because these can require rapid assessment and treatment. The treatment centre also explains how to arrange supervision and follow-up after discharge.

Ask your haematology team whether you need a referral to an accredited cellular therapy centre. Bring details of previous cancer treatments, infections, medicines, allergies and any neurological or heart conditions. Discuss the collection process, preparation medicines, admission arrangements, restrictions after infusion and who to contact outside clinic hours. Arrange practical support for transport, communication and follow-up visits as advised by the centre.

After infusion, contact the treatment centre immediately for fever, chills, marked weakness, dizziness, breathing difficulty, confusion, new speech trouble, severe headache, seizure or unusual sleepiness. Do not wait for the next appointment if symptoms change quickly. Follow the centre's emergency instructions, since early assessment helps the team distinguish treatment reactions from infection or another urgent problem.

Ask which haematologist and cellular therapy centre will coordinate your care, what tests determine eligibility, how long monitoring lasts and which symptoms require an immediate call. Ask when normal activities may resume and whether you need a caregiver or nearby accommodation after treatment.