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0808 2080 888

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We're here for you if you want to talk

0808 2080 888

[email protected]

CAR T-cell therapy is a treatment option for some people with blood cancer. In this section, find out more about CAR T-cell therapy and what to expect if your doctor recommends it for you.

Close up of a researchers hands, working in a laboratory. The person is wearing blue protective gloves and a Blood Cancer UK lab coat, and is using some laboratory equipment.

What is CAR T-cell therapy?

CAR T-cell therapy is a treatment where some of your blood cells, called T cells, are genetically altered to find and kill cancer cells. Find out how CAR T-cell therapy works, and who may be eligible for it.
A woman exercising on a cross-trainer in a gym.

Getting ready for CAR T-cell therapy

There are a few steps to go through before starting CAR T-cell therapy. Read about the timeline of what to expect, the tests and treatment you might have, and tips to help you prepare.
A woman sitting in a hospital receiving intravenous treatment. She's sitting in a chair, with a thin plastic tube coming out from under her rolled up shirt sleeve. There's an IV stand next to her.

Having CAR T-cell therapy

CAR T-cell therapy has three main steps: collecting your T cells, making the CAR T-cells and infusion of the CAR T-cells. Learn what happens during each step.
Derek, who is in remission for blood cancer, walks along a street in a modern housing estate with their black and white springer spaniel dog.

CAR T-cell therapy recovery and side effects

Recovery from CAR T-cell therapy can be challenging and it can cause side effects. Find out about possible side effects, what to expect in recovery and things you can do to help yourself.

CAR T-cell therapy: practical and financial support

Having treatment can have a big impact on everyday life and finances. Find out how to get support with money, work, childcare, pets and more.
Alyssa, who had successful treatment with CAR T-cell therapy at age 13. She's pictured in a garden with her mum, holding hands and smiling.

If your child is having CAR T-cell therapy

Find out what to pack for hospital, sources of emotional, practical and financial support, and how to look after your child when they leave hospital.
Couple arm in arm, smiling at the camera.

CAR T-cell therapy: resources for carers

Caring for someone having CAR T-cell therapy? Get the information and support you need to help them through treatment, support their recovery and look after yourself.
A researcher in a Blood Cancer UK funded lab, looking through a microscope.

Get the latest news on CAR-T

Keep informed about CAR T-cell therapy research and the latest drug approvals, in our news and blogs section.

Get your free guide to CAR-T

Find out the key things you need to know about CAR T-cell therapy in our free booklet. It includes:

  • what to expect before, during and after treatment
  • common side effects
  • recovery
  • sources of practical and financial support.

Download or order your copy now.

A man sitting in his garden at a table reading a booklet about blood cancer, looking focused but although his thoughts are elsewhere.

Funding disclosure

The following organisations have funded this information but have had no input into the content or direction of the project: Autolus Therapeutics (a pharmaceutical company) and Beefy’s Charity Foundation.

Read about how we work with the pharmaceutical industry.