Brian T. Hill, MD, PhD, discusses the management of cytokine release syndrome in patients with hematologic malignancies who are treated with CAR T-cell therapy.
Brian T. Hill, MD, PhD, director of the Lymphoid Malignancies Program and staff physician, Taussig Cancer Institute, and assistant professor, Hematology and Oncology, Cleveland Clinic, discusses the management of cytokine release syndrome (CRS) in patients with hematologic malignancies who are treated with CAR T-cell therapy.
CRS, or cytokine storm, is caused by a high activation level of immune effector cells that are mediated by cytokines, such as interleukin-6 (IL-6), Hill says. Typically, CRS occurs within the first 2 to 4 days following administration of CAR T-cell therapy.
The cytokines induce a sepsis-like physiological response that may include fever, tachycardia, hypoxia, or hypotension, says Hill. Moreover, these adverse effects typically require the patient to be treated in the intensive care unit.
Management strategies for CRS include the administration of tocilizumab (Actemra), which is an anti–IL-6 monoclonal antibody, Hill explains.
However, treatment should take place at an expert-level facility that is experienced in managing CRS, concludes Hill.
Stay at the forefront of cutting-edge science with CGT—your direct line to expert insights, breakthrough data, and real-time coverage of the latest advancements in cell and gene therapy.