Neurologic adverse reactions refer to a range of side effects that may affect the brain or central nervous system.
They are a common side effect of your prescribed CAR T cell therapy, caused by the body reacting to the CAR T cells.
Neurologic adverse reactions tend to occur around 5 days after the infusion and may last for an average of 13 days. However, this can vary from person to person.
Neurologic adverse reactions affect around 2 in 3 people. Of these, around 1 in 3 will experience the more severe form.
It’s important to receive treatment for neurologic adverse reactions as soon as possible. Your healthcare team will monitor you closely and will help to identify if you are having a reaction. If you do experience more severe side effects, you may be moved to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) to ensure you get the best possible care. More information on the ICU can be found here.
Tell your doctor or healthcare team straight away if you notice any of the following signs and symptoms:
Change in handwriting
A major change in your handwriting could indicate the onset of neurologic adverse reactions. Before treatment, write a simple phrase in a notebook. After treatment, write the same phrase next to it and notice whether your handwriting is any different. You can also ask someone close to you or a member of your healthcare team to pay special attention to your handwriting in the weeks following treatment.