Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and lumbar puncture (LP) may not always be necessary for diagnosing and managing a serious neurological complication associated with CAR T-cell therapy, according to a new Blood Advances study. Findings further validated the use of the electroencephalogram (EEG) – a noninvasive test measuring electrical activity in the brain – in managing this neurotoxicity.
Authors sought to evaluate the necessity of three diagnostic tests used to manage care for recipients of CAR T-cell therapy experiencing immune effector cell-associated neurotoxicity syndrome (ICANS). While ICANS’ underlying mechanisms are not entirely understood, patients with ICANS may experience a range of neurological symptoms, including confusion, tremors, seizures, and, in rare cases, serious brain swelling and comas.
