CAR-T Cell Therapy in Turkey: Your Questions Answered

What is CAR-T cell therapy?

CAR-T cell therapy is a form of immunotherapy. Doctors collect a patient's own T cells, modify them in a laboratory so they carry a receptor (a chimeric antigen receptor, or CAR) that recognizes cancer cells, and infuse them back into the patient. The aim is for these cells to find and attack the cancer.

Is CAR-T cell therapy available in Turkey and Istanbul?

Biruni University Hospital in Istanbul offers CAR-T cell therapy for eligible patients through its Cellular Therapy and Bone Marrow Transplant center, alongside adult and pediatric transplant programs. Whether CAR-T is an option for you depends on your diagnosis, previous treatments and general health, which physicians assess after reviewing your reports.

Which conditions can CAR-T treat?

CAR-T is used mainly for certain blood cancers, such as some B-cell lymphomas, B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia and multiple myeloma, usually after other treatments have not worked or the disease has returned. Approved indications differ by product and country, and research continues. Your physicians confirm whether your specific diagnosis qualifies.

Who is eligible for CAR-T treatment?

Eligibility is decided case by case. Physicians look at the type and stage of the disease, previous treatments, current disease status, organ function, infections and general fitness. Not every patient qualifies, and sometimes another option is better, including continuing care in your home country.

How does CAR-T treatment work, step by step?

The usual steps are: (1) evaluation and tests, (2) collecting T cells from your blood (apheresis), (3) manufacturing the CAR-T cells, which takes time that depends on the product, (4) a short course of chemotherapy to prepare your body (lymphodepletion), (5) infusion of the CAR-T cells, and (6) close monitoring and follow-up. Your team explains the timeline for your product.

How long do I need to stay in Istanbul for CAR-T treatment?

It depends on the product, how you respond and any side effects. Patients are generally monitored closely near the treatment center during the first weeks after infusion, then followed remotely together with their local doctor. The team gives you an expected schedule after evaluation, and hotel or in-hospital options are available for the patient and a companion.

What are the side effects and risks of CAR-T?

CAR-T can cause serious side effects, including cytokine release syndrome (fever, low blood pressure), neurological effects (confusion, speech or movement problems), infections and low blood counts. Specialized teams monitor and manage them, which is why treatment should be given in an experienced hospital with intensive care available.

Is CAR-T a cure? What results can I expect?

Some patients achieve long remissions, but results differ between patients and no outcome can be guaranteed. Response depends on the disease, earlier treatments and your general condition. Your physician will discuss realistic expectations for your case.

How much does CAR-T treatment cost in Turkey?

Cost depends on the product, the diagnosis, the length of stay and the care needed, so there is no single price. Biruni Bridge provides a written estimate case by case after reviewing your reports. Ask what the estimate includes, such as hospital stay, medications, monitoring, accommodation and transfers, so you can compare offers accurately.

What documents should I send, and how fast will I hear back?

Send your latest medical report, imaging reports (DICOM images preferred), pathology or biopsy report, recent blood tests and a dated list of previous treatments. A coordinator who speaks your language contacts you, and you usually receive a proposed plan within 24–48 hours of a complete file; complex cases may take longer.

How do I start, and what travel support do you provide?

Send your reports on WhatsApp (+90 536 842 55 97) or by email (info@birunibridge.com), or use the form. Your coordinator arranges interpreting, a medical invitation letter for the visa, airport pick-up and transfer, accommodation for you and your companion, and follow-up with your local doctor after you return.