Learn more about CAR T cell therapy as a treatment option for certain blood cancers and the differences between CAR T and autologous stem cell transplant.
Living with blood cancer can feel overwhelming, especially when it comes to making treatment decisions. There are different treatment options for blood cancer. Your or your loved one’s healthcare team can help you understand what's available and find the right path for you. CAR T cell therapy (short for chimeric antigen receptor T cell therapy) is a treatment approved by the FDA for some blood cancers. It uses your body's own immune cells — called T cells — to find and fight cancer. Because of how it works, it can be hard to understand at first — and there are some common misunderstandings about it. Keep reading to learn the facts about this treatment.
Science communicator & podcast host, Alie Ward, and CAR T cell therapy patient, Marilyn, break down the science behind CAR T cell therapy and share their personal experiences with the treatment.
(Alie): Hi, I am Alie Ward. I have escaped the depths of my podcast lair. I've wandered onto the streets of California, not for the beach, not for the vitamin D (although it helps).
Lower third: Alie Ward, science communicator & podcast host
(Alie): ...but we're going to be talking about something—It sounds like science fiction, but it is very real, and it is giving hope to people living with blood cancer, and it's called CAR T cell therapy. Never heard of it? A lot of people probably haven't, but don't worry; you'll know soon enough. And I'm meeting with someone who can talk about it way better than I can.
On-screen text: CAR T CELL THERAPY: MARILYN’S STORY
(Alie): I'm so excited to see you. I am always just—I have, like, so many questions. Yeah. Did you know of CAR T cell therapy before you received it?
Lower third: Marilyn, CAR T cell therapy patient
(Marilyn): Oh, I knew it was, like, a newer developing therapy for patients with blood cancers, but, really, the details I didn't know until it impacted me.
(Alie): You know, with my dad having blood cancer—He was diagnosed in 2013, and so much has happened. The fact that it's, like, real—
(Marilyn): Yeah. Yeah. Oh, it's real.
On-screen text: Blood Cancers
(Alie): So, before we dive in deeper, here is a quick refresher on blood cancers. So blood cancers start in the blood-forming tissue of the body—like, the bone marrow. And some examples of blood cancers are lymphoma and multiple myeloma and leukemia, and they can also be referred to as hematologic cancers.
Lower third: CAR T cell therapies are not approved for all types of blood cancers.
(Alie): Blood cancer runs in your family. Same with mine. When you were diagnosed, did you have any, any inkling or—
(Marilyn): I was really shocked. Yeah. And when you hear those words, ‘You have cancer,’ it's terrifying. The first time is terrifying. The second time is terrifying. I mean, it doesn't get easier; in some ways, it may—It mentally seems more scary because you start to wonder, you know, like, what are my options? I've already done these treatments, and, you know, you just really wonder. At the point I was at, it was, like, ‘Let's get you right in.’
Lower third: Always talk to your healthcare providers about your treatment options to decide what is best for you.
(Marilyn): They gave me the options, and CAR T was the best option for me. My doctor as well as my entire care team was very thorough with, like, walking me through the process.
(Alie): OK. So, in a nutshell, this is how CAR T cell therapy works. So first, these T cells—your body's immune system fighters—they're removed through a process called apheresis, or leukapheresis, and blood gets withdrawn, the T cells are removed, and then all the remaining blood gets infused back to the patient. And then the T cells go on a trip to a cell engineering lab, where they're programmed to target your cancer. So now we're going to talk about the manufacturing process. So, after collection, the T cells get shipped off to a specialized cell therapy manufacturing facility, and there they get genetically programmed to become CAR T cells. So they're armed with chimeric antigen receptors, or CARs, and they're like hooks. And these T cells can now recognize and fight target cells with a really specific surface antigen—including the bad guys, like the cancer cells. And then the new CAR T cells multiply into millions, and, before they're shipped back, they undergo really intense testing and quality control. And the whole process can take several weeks, but every step is important. And then, a few days before your CAR T cells come back, patients receive a short course of chemotherapy. It's called lymphodepleting chemotherapy. And this helps to create space in the patient's immune system to accept the CAR T cells. Now, it's infusion time. So the patient receives the CAR T cells through a one-time infusion, and the CAR T cells then start expanding and traveling throughout the body to attack the bad guys (AKA, the cancer cells).
On-screen text: CAR T CELL THERAPY PROCESS*: Apheresis --> Manufacturing --> Lymphodepleting Chemotherapy --> Infusion --> Short- and Long-term Side Effect Monitoring
Lower third: *May include bridging therapy while CAR T cell therapy is manufactured.
(Alie): So, Marilyn, I know the whole CAR T cell therapy process took a few months, but what was it actually like?
(Marilyn): Yeah, it can take anywhere from two to three months, but I wasn't in the hospital the whole time. There was a lot happening behind the scenes, and one of the best steps I took was to talk to my care team early on to learn about the whole process. My doctor shared all the information on side effects, including serious side effects such as cytokine release syndrome, neurologic toxicities and infections. So learning about them felt scary initially...
Lower third: Side effects may require treatment in the hospital; lifelong monitoring for secondary cancers is required.
(Marilyn): ...but my doctor walked me through how they plan to monitor and address any of the side effects, which was really reassuring, and just having that information on hand helped to set expectations.
(Alie): Yeah, totally. And, you know, there's another interesting thing. Recently, certain patient monitoring requirements for CAR T cell therapy were reduced, which kind of continues to break down barriers and reduce the time burden on patients and on caregivers.
(Marilyn): Oh, I completely agree. I mean, even though that change came after my treatment, it means so much for future patients and shorter time at the treatment center and less time away from home. It's just an overall smoother experience.
On-screen text: Talk to your healthcare providers about the risks and side effects.
(Alie): I just want to reinforce: so CAR T cell therapy is different than the traditional treatments because it's personalized. So your own T cells are modified to fight certain blood cancers. So it's not a one-size-fits-all approach, and there are certain risks and side effects associated with it. So make sure you speak with your care team about if this could be an appropriate fit for you.
(Alie): So, with that timeline, you get your blood cells drawn, right? And then they engineer modify them, and then, when you get them back, how did you make yourself comfortable during the treatment? Like, what little things helped you feel more at ease?
(Marilyn): When you get them back, you are in the hospital. I brought my own pillow; I brought a blanket.
Lower third: Some patients may receive CAR T cell therapy in an outpatient setting, if determined by their doctor.
(Marilyn): I brought a cover for the mattress so I would be comfortable for the time I was there. Yes. Downloaded movies. The weighted eye mask was—I can't remember who told me to bring that. I think one of my friends did, and it worked. It was great.
(Alie): Did you, you know, start a group text to say, ‘Hey, y'all—I'm going through this’?
(Marilyn): So it was more than a group text. It was having a whole care team, like all of my family and friends involved. Because when, you know, you get out of the hospital and you go home, there's certain precautions and certain rules and certain things. So, um, I had to have a village. It took a village. So I had one of my friends who’s very meticulous come up with this care calendar.
(Alie): Every friend group needs one spreadsheet girly.
(Marilyn): Yeah, exactly. It's not me. Well, I knew exactly who it was going to be, so—
(Alie): You know, um, it's really, though, an honor to be able to be there for someone who you love so much. Yeah. You know, and just trying not to cry. But when you love someone and you're seeing them struggle like that to get their health back and to go through different therapies and to try something and to have to pivot, you know, to be there by their side is—You really start to feel more like a plus-one to their treatment. Hope is such a huge part of it. And, you know, if I ever have someone in my life who, you know, is diagnosed, it's like, I think back to when my dad was diagnosed and how much, how much hope got us through and how long we had him around, you know, and how much the therapy's changed, and you kind of, you kind of have to keep yourself in that really optimistic place.
(Marilyn): Yes. Right.
(Alie): What if the best-case scenario happened?
(Marilyn): That's right. Exactly.
(Alie): You know, it's not fair to just give the worst-case scenario.
(Marilyn): Yeah. Um, and that is what I hope, honestly. Yeah. The best-case scenario. Yes.
(Alie): Marilyn, thank you so much for letting me ask you 1 billion questions and just being so open with your journey. It's so helpful for other people to hear this from someone who's been through it.
(Marilyn): You know, you're so welcome. And I just am glad that I can share my story about my CAR T cell therapy, and I just hope that it can help others.
On-screen text: Hope starts with a conversation: Ask your doctor about CAR T cell therapy.
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A simple animation breaks down the CAR T cell therapy process for patients and caregivers.
(Narrator): If you or a loved one is facing blood cancer, you’ve probably heard about CAR T cell therapy.
Title card: CAR T cell therapy
(Narrator): It sounds like science fiction—using your own immune cells, trained like superheroes, to fight cancer. But, because it’s different from other treatments, there are a lot of myths out there. Let's clear the air and look at the facts.
Title card: Myth vs. Fact: Understanding CAR T cell therapy for blood cancers
(Narrator): Myth: ‘CAR T is too new and untested.’
Title card: Myth: CAR T cell therapy is too new.
(Narrator): The Fact? While it feels brand-new, scientists have actually been researching this technology for over 30 years. In fact, since 2017, more than 50,000 people have received CAR T therapy, giving us a deep, real-world understanding of how it works and how your body may handle it.
Myth: 'CAR T cell therapy is just another type of stem cell transplant.'
Title card: Myth: CAR T cell therapy = stem cell transplant.
(Narrator): The Fact? They’re actually two different treatments. Think of a stem cell transplant as a total system reset—using high-dose chemotherapy to clear out the bone marrow so new, healthy stem cells can rebuild it. CAR T cell therapy, on the other hand, is about targeted training and attacking. Instead of replacing your stem cells, it takes your existing immune cells and modifies them to specifically seek out, target, and destroy the cancer cells.
Myth: ‘CAR T is strictly a last resort.’
Title card: Myth: CAR T cell therapy is strictly a last resort.
(Narrator): The Fact? Doctors are using CAR T early in the treatment journey of blood cancers when appropriate—like right after a first relapse, or if initial treatments don’t work—rather than as a last resort.
On-screen text: *After first relapse only for certain indications, like relapsed or refractory large B-cell lymphoma (LBCL).
(Narrator): Myth: ‘Receiving CAR T cell therapy is a long infusion process compared to stem cell transplant.’
Title card: Myth: CAR T cell therapy is a long infusion process compared to stem cell transplant.
(Narrator): The Fact? While the entire CAR T cell therapy process takes 2–3 months, most of that time is spent on manufacturing the treatment and preparing your body for receiving it. This can include a ‘bridging’ treatment to slow disease progression.
On-screen text: *Bridging therapy may optionally be prescribed by your doctor to slow disease progression while you are waiting for your CAR T cells to be manufactured.
(Narrator): The infusion itself typically takes about 30–60 minutes.
On-screen text: *Days before your CAR T infusion, lymphodepleting chemotherapy will be infused at the CAR T cell therapy site to make room in your body for your CAR T cells.
(Narrator): The length of your hospital stay after infusion will depend on your situation and your care team’s judgment. This allows them to monitor and help manage any potential side effects. This typically lasts 10–14 days. Some patients may receive their treatment as an outpatient, if their doctor thinks that’s an option for them. However, this requires some monitoring at or near the treatment center, as well as onsite follow-up visits until the doctor decides the patient may return home.
Myth: ‘The steps of CAR T cell therapy are complicated and hard to understand.'
Title card: Myth: The steps of CAR T cell therapy are hard to understand.
(Narrator): The Fact? Yes, the process has multiple steps, but they can be easily broken down. Think of it as a journey with distinct steps: First, your T cells are collected. Then, they’re sent to a specialized lab where they are modified to target your specific cancer. During that time, you’ll receive a short course of chemotherapy to prepare the body to receive modified CAR T cells. Finally, the CAR T cells are returned to your body to do their job. Your care team will keep an eye out for any side effects you may experience and monitor your response to the CAR T cells. It’s a process, but your care team is with you every step of the way.
Remember: knowledge is power, especially on a blood cancer journey. You and your care partners are not alone. Talk to your healthcare team to see if CAR T cell therapy is right for you, and visit our website to explore more patient and caregiver resources.
End card: ww5.com/AboutCellTherapy
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Since 2017, CAR T cell therapies continue to demonstrate effectiveness and safety in clinical trial outcomes for people with certain blood cancers. Beyond clinical trials, similar results have been seen in the "real world," meaning results have been collected from patients who received CAR T cell therapy after the treatment received FDA approval.
Learn more about the history of CAR T cell therapy here.
What it is
A type of immunotherapy scientists create by adding lab-made genes to your cancer-fighting T cells
A procedure that replaces cancerous stem cells with your own healthy stem cells
A systemic medication that destroys cancer cells by keeping them from growing, dividing and making more cells
Lab-made proteins that help destroy immune system "invaders" such as cancer cells
How it works
Learn more about the different types of treatments here.
Treatment process
*These may not be the only steps required in the process. Full infusion appointment includes additional steps and will vary in length.
Treatment location
Adverse event monitoring
*Varies by product. Talk to your doctor.
To learn more about monitoring and life after CAR T, please see here.
Step 1: T cell collection (apheresis)
Step 2: “Programming” CAR T cells
T cells are sent to a specialized facility where they:
Take an inside look at the CAR T manufacturing process here.
Step 3: Preparing for treatment (lymphodepleting chemotherapy)
Step 4: CAR T cell therapy infusion
*These may not be the only steps required in the process. Full infusion appointment includes additional steps and will vary in length.
Step 5: Monitoring
Please see more information about side effects in the myth/fact below.
Read more on the CAR T cell therapy treatment experience.
Side effects can vary from person to person. Your care team is trained to watch for and manage side effects. Talk with your doctor about what to expect and when to seek medical help.
CAR T cell therapy side effect information
CAR T cell therapy may increase your risk of getting secondary cancers, including certain types of blood cancers. T cell malignancies have occurred following CAR T cell therapy. The FDA has concluded that the overall benefits of CAR T cell therapy continue to outweigh potential risks.
To learn more about monitoring and life after CAR T, please see here.
Care partners:
It’s normal to get overwhelmed, so it’s important for care partners to take breaks, ask for help and practice self-care.
You are not alone. Healthcare teams offer guidance and resources to prepare and support care partners in this essential role.
Note: Most currently approved and available CAR T cell therapies are autologous, with one approved allogeneic option. For the most part, platforms like allogeneic and in vivo remain investigational and have not been evaluated by regulatory bodies.
Dear Hopeful Heart,
When my doctor first discussed CAR T cell therapy with me, my mind was a whirlwind of both fear and incredible hope. The complex process and potential side effects felt like a lot to grasp. Nobody truly prepares you for the sheer mental load leading up to it: the waiting for results, wrestling with tough decisions, and trying to quiet those "what-ifs."
I tried to stay grounded by focusing on things I could control, like ensuring I ate nourishing meals to build strength, and practicing simple breathing exercises. Acknowledge those overwhelming feelings but then look for small ways to stay present and keep one eye on that beacon of hope.
Sincerely,
The Anxious Awaiter
Dear Confident Caregiver,
Preparing for my loved one's CAR T cell therapy felt like planning for a marathon I knew nothing about. The hospital stay was a huge focus: I meticulously packed essentials, organized notes for doctors and nurses, and steeled myself for the emotional toll. Juggling my own responsibilities, trying to maintain some normalcy at home, and being a constant source of strength for my loved one felt truly immense at times.
My best advice? Build your support team early. Don't do it alone. And remember to care for your own mental health, too. You can't pour from an empty cup, and your well-being is just as vital as theirs.
Sincerely,
The Prepared (But Stressed) Partner
Dear Resilient Warrior,
Walking out of the hospital after CAR T cell therapy was incredible, yet also the start of a whole new chapter of recovery. The fatigue was unlike anything I'd experienced, making simple tasks feel monumental. My mental health also needed attention; even after good news, that anxiety of regular checkups and fear of recurrence can linger.
I've found immense benefit in prioritizing rest and slowly reintroducing gentle movement into my day. And I often didn’t have an appetite, but think of food as your fuel for healing. Recovery is a journey, not a destination, and it's absolutely vital to communicate your evolving needs to your care team and loved ones.
Sincerely,
The Rebuilding Fighter
Specialized treatment centers provide CAR T cell therapy. Their teams are trained to give treatment and support you through the process. After treatment, you can return to your referring doctor for follow-up care.
The number of treatment centers continues to grow, with sites available around the U.S.
Use the U.S. CAR T cell therapy treatment center locator to find a center near you.
Cell Therapy 360® also provides solutions-oriented programs for eligible patients* who have been prescribed a ww5 CAR T cell therapy, as well as their care partners. These programs offer support throughout the treatment journey, including assistance with transportation, lodging and meals.
Visit CellTherapy360.com; or call 1-888-805-4555 and select option 1.
*Eligibility requirements apply.
Additional assistance and support programs may be available from authorized treatment centers, product manufacturers, charitable foundations, patient financial support programs and other sources. Eligibility requirements may apply and vary by program.
When discussing CAR T cell therapy with your doctor, clarify who on your healthcare team can assist with insurance coverage. To determine your insurance coverage for CAR T cell therapy, contact your provider and ask:
Cell Therapy 360® can investigate patient-specific coverage, coverage requirements and out-of-pocket (OOP) costs for ww5 CAR T cell therapies.
Visit ExploreCellTherapy.com, consult your care team to see if this treatment is right for you or your loved one, or find a CAR T cell therapy treatment center near you.
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