Car T-cell therapy in India has shown promising results in clinical trials.
If you’re looking for more information about CAR-T cell therapy and how to access it in India, you have landed on the right page.
We have listed down the most essential facts about car t-cell therapy in India that you need to know.Â
Read on to learn more!
In recent years, the field of cancer treatment has witnessed groundbreaking advancements, and one such breakthrough is CAR-T cell therapy.
Chimeric Antigen Receptor T-cell therapy, commonly known as CAR-T cell therapy, has emerged as a promising treatment for certain types of cancers. In this innovative approach, cancer cells are targeted and destroyed by the body’s immune system.
In India, CAR-T cell therapy is gaining momentum as a transformative option for patients with limited treatment alternatives.
What is CAR-T cell therapy?
CAR-T also known as chimeric antigen receptor T-cell therapy is a form of immunotherapy that uses genetically engineered immune cells to recognize and target cancer cells in the body.
Read Different Types of Cancer Blogs Here.
How is CAR-T Cell Therapy Administered in India?
CAR-T cell therapy involves a complex process that begins by collecting a patient’s T-cells, a type of immune cell, through a process called leukapheresis.
These T-cells are then genetically engineered to express chimeric antigen receptors (CARs) on their surface, which enables them to recognize and attack specific cancer cells.
The modified CAR-T cells are cultured and multiplied in the laboratory before being infused back into the patient’s bloodstream. This infusion allows the CAR-T cells to seek out and destroy cancer cells throughout the body.
How to Diagnose Patients for CAR-T Cell Therapy?
Before being considered eligible for CAR-T cell therapy, patients must first be diagnosed and evaluated to ensure they meet certain criteria.
In India, this typically involves a combination of:
- Lab tests,
- Medical imaging scans (such as MRI or CT), and
- Biopsy results.
Patient selection for CAR-T cell therapy involves a thorough assessment of various factors, such as:
- The patient’s overall health,
- Previous treatment history, and
- The specific characteristics of their cancer.
Patients with relapsed or refractory cancers who have exhausted standard treatment options are considered suitable candidates for CAR-T cell therapy.
Types of Cancers Treated with CAR-T Cell Therapy in India
CAR-T cell therapy has demonstrated remarkable success in treating certain types of blood cancers and lymphomas. In India, this therapy is primarily used to treat:
i. Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL):
CAR-T cell therapy has shown promising results in treating relapsed or refractory ALL, particularly in pediatric patients.
ii. Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma (DLBCL):
DLBCL, a common form of non-Hodgkin lymphoma, has also been a target for CAR-T cell therapy.
iii. Multiple Myeloma:
Although still in its early stages for multiple myeloma, CAR-T cell therapy research holds potential for patients with this form of cancer. CAR-T cell treatment in cases of recurrent or unresponsive Multiple myeloma is still in the clinical trial phase.
What Are The Advantages and Limitations of CAR-T Cell Therapy?
CAR-T cell therapy has the potential to provide long-term remission or even cure patients with certain types of cancers that have been otherwise resistant to conventional therapies.
However, there are also some important considerations to keep in mind when it comes to CAR-T cell therapy.
Advantages:
Targeted Therapy:
CAR-T cell therapy precisely targets cancer cells, minimizing damage to healthy cells.
High Response Rates:
The therapy has shown remarkable response rates, even in patients with limited treatment options.
Potential for Long-Term Remission:
Some patients achieve long-lasting remission after CAR-T cell therapy, offering the hope of a cure.
Limitations:
High Cost:
The cost of CAR-T cell therapy can be unaffordable for many patients, limiting its accessibility.
Cytokine Release Syndrome (CRS):
CRS is a potential side effect associated with cancer treatment characterized by fever, flu-like symptoms, and, in severe cases, organ dysfunction.
Neurological Toxicities:
Some patients experience neurological side effects, which can range from mild confusion to more severe conditions.
Potential Long-Term Effects of CAR-T Cell Therapy
As CAR-T cell therapy is a relatively new approach, its long-term effects are still being studied.
Potential concerns include:
- The persistence of modified T-cells in the body,
- The development of secondary cancers, and
- The duration of remission achieved.
The need for ongoing follow-up and monitoring of patients who undergo CAR-T cell therapy is essential in order to understand the full range of potential risks and benefits.
How Much Does CAR-T Cell Therapy Cost in India?
The cost of CAR-T cell therapy in India varies based on several factors, including the type of cancer being treated, the specific CAR-T cell product used, the hospital or treatment center, and additional medical expenses.
As of now, the cost can range from Rs 40-70 lakh ($48000 – $85000 USD) in India. CAR-T cell therapy in India tends to be more affordable compared to countries like the United States or certain European nations. The cost of CAR-T cell therapy in the US and UK was often reported to be in the range of $373,000 to $475,000 or even higher for a single treatment.
What Are The Factors That Influence the Costs of CAR T-Cell Therapy in India?
Several factors contribute to the cost of CAR-T cell therapy:
Research and Development:
The intricate genetic engineering process and extensive research involved in developing CAR-T cell therapies contribute significantly to their cost.
Manufacturing and Processing:
Producing and multiplying the modified CAR-T cells in a sterile and controlled environment is a complex and resource-intensive process.
Clinical Infrastructure:
The therapy requires specialized facilities, trained medical professionals, and stringent monitoring, which add to the overall cost.
Patient Care:
After the infusion, patients need close monitoring, including managing potential side effects, which further adds to the treatment expenses.
Conclusion
CAR-T cell therapy stands as a beacon of hope in the realm of cancer treatment, offering a personalized and targeted approach that holds the potential to transform the lives of patients with limited options.
While it comes with a significant cost and certain limitations, the success stories and ongoing research in India and around the world are paving the way for a brighter future in cancer care.
How Can MedicoExperts Help with CAR-T Cell Therapy?
As technology advances and research progresses, the accessibility and effectiveness of CAR-T cell therapy are expected to improve, bringing us closer to a world where cancer can be conquered with the power of our own immune systems.
MedicoExpert’s team of experts is here to guide you through every step of the CAR-T cell therapy process, from diagnosis to treatment. Our tumor board ensures personalized and comprehensive care for every patient.Â
We can provide you with information about the best hospitals for CAR-T cell therapy in India, potential side effects, cost estimates, insurance coverage options, and more. We also offer round-the-clock support to answer any questions and ensure that your experience is as smooth and successful as possible.
At MedicoExperts, we strive to make cancer treatment as accessible and affordable as possible. We understand the complex nature of this therapy and are committed to helping you make informed decisions about your health.
Contact us today to learn more about CAR-T cell therapy in India!
FAQ :
Q1. Is CAR-T cell therapy available in India?
A. Yes, CAR-T cell therapy is currently available at select cancer centers in India for certain types of cancers.
Q2. Is the CAR-T cell therapy painful?
A. CAR-T cell therapy is not painful, but it can cause side effects such as fatigue, fever, nausea, and vomiting.
Q3. What are the chances of success with CAR-T cell therapy?
A. The efficacy of CAR-T cell therapy depends on the type and stage of cancer being treated, as well as other factors such as a patient’s overall health. However, the response rates of some types of cancers have been very promising.
Q4. How long does it take for CAR-T cell therapy to work?
A. It can take up to several weeks for the modified T-cells to start working against cancer cells. The treatment is usually considered successful if there is a sustained remission of several months or more.
Q5. How many days is car T therapy?
A. The CAR T cell therapy process typically spans three months, starting with an eligibility assessment ordered by your doctor and concluding with a 30-day observation period following the infusion. MedicoExpert’s Tumor Board provides personalized support along the way to ensure that you receive the best possible care.
References
https://www.cancer.gov/news-events/cancer-currents-blog/2024/nexcar19-car-t-cell-therapy-india-nci-collaboration
https://www.cancer.gov/publications/dictionaries/cancer-terms/def/car-t-cell-therapy
https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/treatment/research/car-t-cells
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29667553/
