Author: Dr. Thomas Babu, Consultant - Medical Oncology

CAR T-cell Therapy, also called the “Living Drug”, is one of the most advanced cancer treatments available today. It represents a breakthrough in cancer immunotherapy, offering hope to patients whose cancer has relapsed or does not respond to standard treatments like chemotherapy.

At Caritas Hospital – a leading Cancer Care and Critical Care Hospital in Kerala – patients now have access to this cutting-edge therapy under the guidance of expert hematologists and oncologists.

What is CAR T-Cell Therapy?

CAR T-cell Therapy (Chimeric Antigen Receptor T-Cell Therapy) uses genetically modified white blood cells (T-lymphocytes) from the patient’s own body. These modified cells are reprogrammed to identify and destroy cancer cells effectively. Because living immune cells are used as medicine, CAR T-cell therapy is often called the “Living Drug”.

Which Cancers Can Be Treated with CAR T-Cells?

Currently, CAR T-cell therapy is used to treat certain blood cancers, especially:

• B-cell Lymphoma (after relapse or when unresponsive to chemotherapy)
• B-cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL)

Research is ongoing to expand CAR T-cell therapy for other cancers in the future.

How Are CAR T-Cells Made?

The therapy involves multiple advanced steps:

1. Collection:The patient’s T-cells are separated from the blood using a process called leukapheresis.
2. Genetic Modification: In a central laboratory, these cells are genetically engineered to recognize and attack cancer cells.
3. Expansion: The modified T-cells are multiplied in large numbers.
4. Infusion Back into the Patient: Finally, the modified T-cells are infused back into the patient’s body to fight cancer.

How Long Does It Take?

It takes about 3 weeks (21 days) to prepare the CAR T-cells before they can be given back to the patient.

Facilities Required for CAR T-Cell Therapy

CAR T-cell treatment requires advanced infrastructure and expertise. It is performed under the supervision of hematologists/medical oncologists in a specialized stem cell therapy unit with round-the-clock critical care support.

Why is it Called the Living Drug?

Unlike chemotherapy or radiation, CAR T-cell therapy uses living cells as medicine. These modified T-cells remain active inside the patient’s body, continue to detect cancer cells, and destroy them – making it a living drug.

CAR T-Cell Therapy at Caritas Hospital

At Caritas Hospital, Kottayam – one of the Best Cancer Hospitals in Kerala – we are proud to bring this revolutionary treatment closer to patients. With world-class facilities, experienced oncologists, and dedicated stem cell therapy units, Caritas stands at the forefront of advanced cancer treatment in India.

If you or your loved one is seeking CAR T-cell therapy in Kerala or India, Caritas Hospital is here with expert guidance, compassionate care, and cutting-edge technology.