Frequently Asked Questions About CAR-T cell Therapy
When will my central line be removed?
You will be discharged home with your central line still in place. A home care nurse will provide central line care and teach you or a family member how to care for it at home between dressing changes.
Your healthcare team will decide when it is the right time to remove it. An appointment will be scheduled with the Interventional Radiology department to have your permcath removed.
How will I know if the CAR-T cell therapy is working?
- Your hematology doctor will order scans or tests, such as a bone marrow biopsy, blood test, PET scan, or CT scan, to see how your body is doing after the CAR-T cell therapy.
- The form of testing will depend on your type of cancer.
When can I return my normal routine?
Driving
You will not be allowed to drive after CAR-T cell therapy until you have been medically cleared by your hematology doctor, typically no sooner than eight (8) weeks after treatment.
Work
You will not be able to work during and after CAR-T cell therapy until you are medically cleared by your hematology doctor, approximately three (3) to six (6) months after treatment, depending on your type of work. Talk to your hematology doctor about your return-to-work plans. Please also ask if you need any assistance with forms and financial assistance related to your time off work.
Visiting the dentist
Schedule an appointment to see your dentist approximately three (3) to four (4) months after getting CAR-T cell therapy and tell them that you have received this treatment.
Diet
It is important to have a well-balanced and nutritious diet during and after CAR-T cell therapy. This will help improve your energy, strength, and overall recovery time. There is no special diet you need to follow. However, you will need to be careful about food safety. It is important that you avoid unpasteurized dairy products, honey, and raw fish (e.g., sushi) due to the risk of food-related infections. You also need to ensure you are washing any fresh produce.
Exercise
Slowly start adding light movement into your daily life, such as going for walks or doing stretches. You can do these activities more as you continue to recover and feel stronger. Make sure to listen to your body and take breaks as needed. Returning to your normal level of physical activity can take up to six (6) months.
Sex
It is recommended to use barrier contraception for people of all ages. CAR-T cell therapy may change your sexual function and desire to be intimate. If your interest in intimacy and sexual activity does not improve as your recovery continues, please inform your doctor during your follow-up visits.
Will I need any medications long-term?
You may have to remain on antibiotic and antiviral medications for up to 12 months after your CAR-T cell therapy to help reduce your risk of infections. You will be at high risk for certain infections, such as shingles and pneumonia.
Do I need to be re-vaccinated?
The lymphodepleting chemotherapy and CAR-T cell therapy can weaken the immunity you had from past vaccinations. As a result, you will need to get re-vaccinated starting approximately three (3) to (6) months after your CAR-T cell therapy.
This includes the vaccines you received as a child. Your healthcare team will clearly explain what vaccinations are needed and help you during this process. These vaccinations are given by your primary care provider (family doctor or nurse practitioner). You will be given a vaccine schedule to share with your primary care provider identifying what vaccines are needed and at what times post CAR-T cell therapy.
