CAR-T cell therapy gives a new lease of life to a 48-year-old woman in Gujarat

New Delhi: Apollo Cancer Centre (ACC), Ahmedabad, has achieved a significant medical milestone by successfully performing Chimeric Antigen Receptor (CAR) T-cell therapy on a female patient with complex co-morbid conditions and relapsed acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (Ph-positive). It was the first time that such a complex case underwent such a procedure in the state of Gujarat.

The 48-years-old female patient had previously undergone an allogenic bone marrow transplant in New Delhi in July last year. She faced numerous complications post-transplant, including acute gut, graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) and chronic liver parenchymal disease.  In January this year, she experienced disease relapse and sought further evaluation and management at ACC, Ahmedabad.

Following a thorough evaluation, the patient achieved molecular remission post-immunotherapy and was later planned for CAR T-cell therapy. She underwent lymphocyte apheresis followed by CAR T-cell infusion on May 7. The therapy was overseen by Lt. Gen. Dr. Velu Nair, Head & Chief Consultant – Haemato-Oncology & Bone Marrow Transplant, Apollo Cancer Centre, Ahmedabad.

Speaking about the case, Dr. Nair said, “Administering CAR T-cell therapy in this case was particularly challenging due to the patient’s existing co-morbidities, which included chronic liver disease and relapse post bone marrow transplant. This is one of the first cases of its kind in the state and it marks a significant advancement in the treatment of relapsed acute lymphoblastic leukaemia.

Post CAR T-cell therapy, the patient developed Grade I cytokine release syndrome, which was managed conservatively. “The patient is afebrile and hemodynamically stable, and she will need to undergo regular checks to monitor her progress,” Dr. Nair added.

Neeraj Lal, COO and Unit Head, Apollo Cancer Centre, Gujarat Region, said, “This successful CART-cell therapy procedure underscores our commitment to providing cutting-edge treatments and highlights our ability to handle complex medical cases. We are proud of our team for its dedication and expertise in bringing such advanced care to patients.”

This remarkable achievement stands as a beacon of hope for countless individuals battling aggressive cancers worldwide. It underscores the critical importance of cutting-edge research, innovative therapies, and the unwavering commitment of healthcare professionals.

The historic achievement reinforces Apollo Cancer Centre, Ahmedabad’s position at the forefront of medical innovation, not just in Gujarat but across the nation. With a steadfast commitment to improving patient care and outcomes, Apollo Cancer Centre, Ahmedabad, continues to pave the way for advanced medical treatments and procedures.