The CAR T-Cell Therapy Clinical Journey Guide
Glossary
Cannula
A small tube inserted into a vessel, cavity or duct to allow flow of substances (usually fluids).
CAR
Chimeric Antigen Receptor
CAR
See Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR).
Catheter
A thin tube used to deliver blood, fluids or medications into a vein.
CD19
An antigen, or “marker” found on the surface of B cells. See ‘antigens’.
Cell
The basic membrane-bound unit of life that composes all living things.
Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)
A protein created in a laboratory that is designed to recognise an antigen (or marker) on cancer cells. When added to T cells, CARs give T cells (now called “CAR T cells”) the ability to identify and destroy cancer cells.
Chronic stressor
Stress resulting from repeated exposure to situations that lead to the release of stress hormones. This type of stress can cause wear and tear on your mind and body.
Clinical Research Team
A group of professionals involved in all aspects of running a clinical trial. Team members can include investigators, research nurses and coordinators, data managers, staff nurses and doctors. In some centres, team members may also serve as the healthcare providers for trial participants.
Clinical trial
Research that involves one or more human participants, carried out to learn if a treatment is safe and/or works.
CRS
Cytokine Release Syndrome
CT or CAT scan
Uses a group of X-rays taken at different angles around the body and a computer to create detailed cross-sectional images.
Cytokine Release Syndrome (CRS)
A common side effect of CAR T-cell therapy. CRS occurs when many cytokines are released by immune cells during immunotherapy. Some symptoms are nausea, fever, headache, rapid heartbeat, low blood pressure, rash and trouble breathing. CRS can be mild or moderate. CRS can feel like a very bad case of the flu, but in rare cases it can be severe or life-threatening.
Cytokine Storm
See Cytokine Release Syndrome.
Cytokines
Small proteins that regulate the immune system. Cytokines are released by certain immune system cells. They can stimulate the immune system to attack cancer and also cause the production of more cytokines.
Cytopenias
Low blood cell counts, including red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets.
