SARS-CoV-2 infection in patients with inborn errors of immunity due to DNA repair defects

Area of Science:

• Immunology
• Genetics
• Infectious Diseases

Background:

• Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection, causing Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), poses risks to various patient groups.
• Inborn errors of immunity (IEI) encompass a range of genetic disorders affecting immune system development and function.
• DNA repair mechanisms are crucial for adaptive immunity, essential for combating viral infections like SARS-CoV-2.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the impact of SARS-CoV-2 infection in patients with IEI, specifically those with DNA repair disorders.
• To consolidate current knowledge on susceptibility, pathogenesis, clinical features, and management of COVID-19 in this population.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of studies concerning SARS-CoV-2 infection in IEI patients with DNA repair defects.
• Synthesis of information on risk factors, viral mechanisms, clinical presentations, and therapeutic approaches.

Main Results:

• Limited clinical data exists for SARS-CoV-2 in IEI patients with DNA repair disorders.
• DNA repair deficiencies may compromise adaptive immunity, potentially increasing susceptibility and severity of COVID-19.
• Key aspects discussed include specific risk factors, pathogenic pathways, diverse clinical manifestations, and tailored management strategies.

Conclusions:

• IEI patients with DNA repair disorders represent a high-risk group for severe COVID-19.
• Understanding the interplay between DNA repair, immunity, and SARS-CoV-2 is critical for effective patient care.
• Further research is needed to optimize prevention and treatment protocols for this population.