[Rheumatology and COVID-19].

Area of Science:

• Rheumatology
• Infectious Diseases
• Immunology

Background:

• The COVID-19 pandemic necessitated changes in rheumatology patient care to minimize healthcare exposure.
• Patients on immunosuppressive therapy are considered high-risk for severe COVID-19 outcomes.
• Emerging evidence challenges the assumption of universally severe COVID-19 presentations in these patients.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review current practices in rheumatology patient care during the pandemic.
• To evaluate the scientific evidence regarding COVID-19 outcomes in patients on immunosuppressive therapy.
• To inform guidelines for managing rheumatology patients during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic.

Main Methods:

• Review of current pandemic-related changes in rheumatology care, including reduced blood tests, teleconsultations, and drug administration route changes.
• Analysis of available scientific literature on COVID-19 severity in immunosuppressed patients.
• Examination of existing guidelines for managing rheumatology patients during the pandemic.

Main Results:

• Pandemic care adjustments include less frequent blood tests, teleconsultations, and subcutaneous drug administration.
• Scientific evidence suggests immunosuppressive therapy does not invariably lead to severe COVID-19.
• Current guidelines advocate continuing immunosuppressive treatment during the pandemic.

Conclusions:

• Rheumatology patient management requires adaptation to reduce transmission risks.
• Immunosuppressive therapies may be safely continued in most patients during the pandemic.
• Temporary discontinuation of specific immunosuppressants is recommended upon SARS-CoV-2 infection, with exceptions.