Overview of nutritional approach in hematopoietic stem cell transplantation: COVID-19 update

Area of Science:

• Hematology
• Infectious Diseases
• Nutrition Science

Background:

• Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), caused by SARS-CoV-2, presents unique challenges for patients undergoing Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation (HSCT).
• HSCT patients, particularly those on immunosuppressive therapy, are considered at higher risk for contracting COVID-19.
• The pandemic has introduced significant uncertainty into all phases of HSCT care.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a comprehensive review of nutritional status complications in HSCT patients during the COVID-19 pandemic.
• To outline appropriate nutritional approaches for managing these complications.
• To emphasize the importance of nutritional support for successful engraftment in HSCT recipients.

Main Methods:

• This review synthesizes current literature on COVID-19's impact on HSCT patients.
• It examines common HSCT complications affecting nutritional intake, such as dysgeusia, mucositis, and gastrointestinal issues.
• The review focuses on evidence-based nutritional strategies tailored to HSCT patients during the pandemic.

Main Results:

• Malnutrition is a significant issue in HSCT patients during the COVID-19 pandemic, primarily driven by reduced energy and nutrient intake.
• HSCT-related complications like dysgeusia, mucositis, diarrhea, constipation, xerostomia, and nausea/vomiting exacerbate nutritional problems.
• Effective nutritional management is essential to mitigate these complications and support patient recovery.

Conclusions:

• Addressing malnutrition and HSCT-specific complications through targeted nutritional interventions is vital for successful engraftment.
• Proactive nutritional care is necessary to improve outcomes for HSCT patients during the COVID-19 pandemic.
• Further research into optimized nutritional strategies for this vulnerable population is warranted.