Chimeric antigen receptor T-cell therapies are promising new options for patients with relapsed or refractory diffuse large B-cell lymphoma or acute lymphoblastic leukaemia. They increase complete response rates and the chances of achieving prolonged remission. Chimeric antigen receptor T cells are specially modified lymphocytes designed to stimulate the body's own immune system to target malignant cells. The process involves an initial harvest of the patient's own T cells, genetic modification, T-cell expansion and then reinfusion. Cytokine release syndrome is a major short-term complication of chimeric antigen receptor T-cell therapy. The presentation typically resembles septic shock and can be fatal. Immune effector cell-associated neurotoxicity syndrome is another major short-term complication. It presents with a spectrum of neurological deficits ranging from headache, delirium and anxiety to seizures and coma. There are early promising results with chimeric antigen receptor T-cell therapies in other cancers. These include mantle cell lymphoma, multiple myeloma and some solid organ tumours such as glioblastoma multiforme.
Wound management involves an understanding of the aetiology and pathophysiology of a wound, the healing process and how best to manage both. Acute wounds can occur suddenly, such as burns and skin tears. Chronic wounds fail to progress through the normal stages of healing and can include ulcers, pressure injuries and infected wounds. Dressings and bandages provide the optimal environment for the healing of all wound types. It is important for healthcare practitioners to understand the key differences in their properties, uses and precautions. Selecting the ideal dressing or bandage can minimise the healing duration, reduce the bioburden, and improve a patient's quality of life.