SARS-CoV-2 Seropositivity and Seroconversion in Patients Undergoing Active Cancer-Directed Therapy

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Infectious Diseases
• Epidemiology

Background:

• The COVID-19 pandemic significantly disrupted cancer care delivery.
• Cancer patients are considered a vulnerable population susceptible to severe outcomes from SARS-CoV-2 infection.
• Effective transmission mitigation strategies are crucial for maintaining essential cancer care.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effectiveness of SARS-CoV-2 transmission mitigation measures in a cancer patient population.
• To assess the rates of SARS-CoV-2 antibody seropositivity and seroconversion among cancer patients undergoing treatment.

Main Methods:

• A longitudinal study was conducted between May 21, 2020, and October 8, 2020.
• Participants included patients receiving cancer-directed therapy at infusion centers.
• Data collection involved questionnaires and up to five serial blood collections to test for SARS-CoV-2 antibodies.

Main Results:

• Out of 124 enrolled patients, only 1.6% showed detectable SARS-CoV-2 antibodies initially.
• No initially seronegative patients developed new antibodies during the study period.
• The seroconversion rate was 0% (95% CI, 0.0–4.1%) over 14.8 person-years, with a median of 13 healthcare visits per patient.

Conclusions:

• Aggressive mitigation efforts in healthcare facilities significantly reduce the risk of COVID-19 infection in cancer patients.
• In-person cancer care can be delivered safely with stringent public health measures in place.
• The study demonstrates the feasibility and safety of continuing cancer treatment during the pandemic.