Cognitive Biomarkers of Chimeric Antigen Receptor T-cell Therapy-Associated Neurotoxicity

Chimeric antigen receptor T-cell (CAR-T) therapy has significantly improved the treatment of blood cancers; however, approximately one-third of patients develop treatment-related brain toxicity. This toxicity can lead to cognitive impairment. Current tools for detecting brain toxicity are limited, and diagnosis can be challenging. Furthermore, cognitive recovery following brain toxicity is poorly understood. This thesis focused on developing cognitive tests to improve diagnosis and monitoring of CAR-T-associated brain toxicity. The findings demonstrate that most patients recover within 1-3 months and do not experience long-term cognitive deficits. The outcomes will inform improved clinical tools and care pathways for CAR-T-related brain toxicity.