high fever, low blood pressure and other symptoms. Three-quarters of patients in this trial developed cytokine release syndrome — but it was usually mild and able to be treated within a few days.
Neurological issues — like dizziness, confusion and memory problems — are another concern. Forty-two percent of patients had those types of side effects, but they were mild in all cases but one, the researchers said.
Kochenderfer noted that more research is “clearly needed,” and the companies developing this particular CAR T-cell therapy are moving it into further trials. His lab at the cancer institute is working on a slightly different CAR T-cell therapy, also targeting BCMA.
For now, Alsina said, multiple myeloma patients can only get the treatment by enrolling in a clinical trial. One way to find out about trials is by contacting the cancer institute.
More information
The U.S. National Cancer Institute has more on CAR T-cell therapy.
