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COVID-19 and Cancer Patients
Rajvi Patel1, Jennifer Park1, Ankit Shah1
1Department of Medical Oncology, Northwell Health Cancer Institute, Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra and Feinstein Institute for Medical Research, USA.
Cancer Medicine Journal
|May 15, 2020
Summary
Patients with blood cancers or undergoing chemotherapy face higher COVID-19 mortality risks due to immune suppression. Cancer centers need specific guidelines to protect this vulnerable population during the pandemic.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Infectious Diseases
- Public Health
Background:
- The COVID-19 pandemic presents evolving risks, necessitating identification of vulnerable populations.
- Older adults and those with comorbidities are at increased risk of severe outcomes.
- Patients with hematologic and oncologic malignancies undergoing active cytotoxic treatments are particularly vulnerable due to myelosuppression and immunosuppression.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify populations at higher risk for severe COVID-19 outcomes.
- To review current data, risks, and recommendations for COVID-19 in cancer patients.
- To emphasize the need for specialized guidelines for cancer centers.
Main Methods:
- Review of current scientific literature and epidemiological data on COVID-19.
- Analysis of risk factors for severe COVID-19 in immunocompromised individuals.
- Synthesis of recommendations from public health organizations and cancer care experts.
Main Results:
- Cancer patients on active cytotoxic therapy represent a high-risk group for COVID-19 complications and mortality.
- Standard Centers for Disease Control (CDC) guidelines may require augmentation for this specific population.
- Immunosuppression and myelosuppression significantly elevate COVID-19 risks in cancer patients.
Conclusions:
- Cancer patients undergoing treatment require tailored protective strategies against COVID-19.
- Cancer centers must implement specific protocols to safeguard patients with hematologic and oncologic malignancies.
- Further research and updated guidelines are crucial for managing COVID-19 in this vulnerable cohort.
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