In a nutshell
This study looked at the current evidence for the effect of changing genes in T-cells (a type of immune cell) to target cancer cells in acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). The study found that these T-cells were safe and effective in the treatment of ALL.
Some background
Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia is a type of bone marrow cancer which leads to a weakened immune system. T-cells are an important part of the immune response. It may be possible to modify these T-cells to attack cancer cells in patients with ALL. It is important to research if this is a safe and effective treatment method.
Methods & findings
Evidence reviewed showed that studies which have looked at T-cell therapy have had varied methods, analysis, and grading of safety and effectiveness.
Treatment with a single-dose of T-cell therapy resulted in complete remission (no signs of cancer after treatment) in 70-90% of cases. Side effects of this treatment include damage to nerves, fever, muscle pain and organ failure.
Although the positive effects of T-cell therapy are long-lasting, some patients experience relapse (return of cancer). Some studies showed that these patients may benefit from a stem cell transplant after achieving remission from T-cell therapy.
The bottom line
The study concluded that safety and effectiveness of T-cell therapy in patients with ALL was positive and similar across current evidence.
The fine print
The study notes that abnormal genes in an individual have a large impact on the safety and effectiveness of T-cell therapy.
What’s next?
Talk to your doctor about the possibility of T-cell therapy for the treatment of ALL.
Published By :
Current hematologic malignancy reports
Date :
Aug 17, 2018
