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Immune-Related Adverse Events Among COVID-19-Vaccinated Patients With Cancer Receiving Immune Checkpoint Blockade
Adam J Widman1, Bevin Cohen2, Vivian Park3
1Breast Oncology Service, Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center.
Journal of the National Comprehensive Cancer Network : JNCCN
|October 14, 2022
Summary
COVID-19 vaccination is safe for cancer patients receiving immune checkpoint inhibition (ICI) therapy. The study found no increased risk of immune-related adverse events (irAEs) following vaccination during ICI treatment.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Immunology
- Vaccinology
Background:
- The safety of COVID-19 vaccination in patients undergoing immune checkpoint inhibition (ICI) therapy is not well-established.
- Investigating potential increases in immune-related adverse events (irAEs) due to vaccination during ICI treatment is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the safety and efficacy of COVID-19 vaccination in cancer patients receiving ICI therapy.
- To determine if concurrent COVID-19 vaccination increases the incidence or severity of irAEs.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of electronic health records for 408 cancer patients on ICI therapy who received COVID-19 vaccination.
- Evaluation of irAE incidence, type, and grade within 90 days of vaccination.
- Assessment of irAEs in patients starting new immunotherapy post-vaccination.
Main Results:
- COVID-19 vaccination during ICI therapy was not associated with an increased incidence of irAEs (7% of patients experienced new irAEs).
- A low rate of irAE recurrence (6%) was observed in patients with prior irAEs.
- No excess risk of COVID-19 diagnosis or breakthrough infections was noted post-vaccination.
Conclusions:
- COVID-19 vaccination is safe and effective for patients undergoing ICI therapy.
- Findings reassure healthcare providers about the concurrent administration of vaccines and ICI treatment.
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