Clinical presentations and outcomes of children with cancer and COVID-19: A systematic review

Immunophenotype of lymphocytes and real-world outcome of COVID-19 infection in children with hematology and oncology

BACKGROUND

Patients with immunocompromise were suspected to encounter a high risk for severe coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) infection on early period; however, data is lacking nowadays and immune response remain unclear.

METHODS

In this retrospective study, internet questionnaire survey and medical records were acquired in pediatric hematology oncology patients. Clinical severity, immunological characteristics, and outcomes were analyzed from December 1, 2022 to January 31, 2023 at the 3rd year of pandemic in China.

RESULTS

A total of 306 patients were included, with 21 patients (6.9%) asymptomatic, 262 (85.6%) mild severity, 17 (5.6%) moderate severity, 5 (1.6%) severe severity, and 1 (0.3%) critical severity. Seventy-eight (25.5%) patients were on intensive chemotherapy, and 32.0% children were on maintenance chemotherapy. Delays in cancer therapy occurred in 86.7% patients. Univariable analysis revealed active chemotherapy (P < 0.0001), long duration of symptom (P < 0.0001), low lymphocytes count (P = 0.095), low CD3 + and CD8 + T cell count (P = 0.013, P = 0.022), high percentage of CD4 + TCM (P = 0.016), and low percentage of transitional B cells (P = 0.045) were high risk factors for severe COVID-19 infection. Cox regression model showed that the absolute lymphocytes count (P = 0.027) and long duration of symptom (P = 0.002) were the independent factors for severity. Patients with CD8 + dominant and B cell depletion subtype wasn't related with severity, but had higher percentage of CD8 + effector memory T cells (TEM) and terminally differentiated effector memory T cells (TEMRA) (P < 0.001, P < 0.001), and a longer COVID-19 duration (P = 0.045).

CONCLUSION

The severity was relatively mild in children with immunodeficiencies in the third year of COVID-19 pandemic. Low lymphocyte count and long duration of symptom were the independent risk factors with COVID-19 severity. Delays in cancer care remain a major concern and the long outcome is pending.

SARS-CoV-2 Infection in the Pediatric Oncology Population: The Definitive Comprehensive Report of the Infectious Diseases Working Group of AIEOP

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study was to assess the clinical impact and outcome of the SARS-CoV-2 infection on children with cancer or those who received a hematopoietic stem cell transplantation.

METHODS

AIEOP (Italian Association of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology) performed a nationwide multicenter observational cohort study, including consecutive patients between April 2020 and November 2022.

RESULTS

Twenty-five Italian centers participated and 455 patients were enrolled. We reported a significant increasing trend of symptomatic cases over the years, while the number of nonmild infections remained stable. Early infection after oncologic diagnosis (<60 days) and severe neutropenia were identified as independent risk factors for developing moderate, severe, or critical infections. The percentage of patients who were asymptomatic and mildly symptomatic and who stopped chemotherapy reduced over the years of the pandemic. Nine patients died, but no death was attributed to SARS-CoV-2 infection.

CONCLUSIONS

SARS-CoV-2 infection presented a self-limiting benign course in the Italian pediatric oncohematology population during the pandemic, and its main consequence has been the discontinuation of cancer-directed therapies. The rate of patients who were asymptomatic and stopped chemotherapy reduced over the years, suggesting that the continuation of chemotherapy is a feasible option.

SARS-CoV-2 vaccination response in pediatric oncology patients

BACKGROUND

There remains limited knowledge about the immune response to severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) vaccination in pediatric oncology patients, which is essential to provide counseling and risk adaptation in this vulnerable population. The goal of this study was to understand immunogenicity after vaccination in pediatric oncology patients, and determine if certain clinical factors impacted response.

METHODS

Patients 0-25 years of age with a diagnosis of cancer and actively receiving therapy were enrolled on study. We excluded patients who were completely vaccinated prior to their cancer diagnosis. Blood samples were collected pre-vaccination, as well as 2, 4-6, and 8-12 weeks after vaccination. Healthy children who were fully vaccinated enrolled as controls. Clinical data and complete blood counts around time of vaccination were collected. To study B- and T-cell immunity, we measured neutralizing antibodies by enzyme-linked immunoassay and interferon gamma secretion by enzyme-linked immunospot, respectively.

RESULTS

Twenty-six patients enrolled on study, for which 11 were evaluable oncology patients and seven were healthy controls. Adequate B-cell response was seen in 36.4% of patients, and adequate T-cell response in 77.8% of patients. Numbers were too small to detect differences based on malignancy type. There was no differences in immunity based on absolute lymphocyte count (ALC) or intensity of therapy.

CONCLUSION

Pediatric oncology patients have a suboptimal immune response to SARS-CoV-2 vaccination. Booster doses will be imperative to provide optimal protection against COVID-19; however, blood counts may not be a useful guide to optimize the time of administration.

Risk Factors for Pediatric Critical COVID-19: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Background

Risk stratification is a cornerstone of the Pediatric Infectious Diseases Society COVID-19 treatment guidance. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to define the clinical characteristics and comorbidities associated with critical COVID-19 in children and adolescents.

Methods

Two independent reviewers screened the literature (Medline and EMBASE) for studies published through August 2023 that reported outcome data on patients aged ≤21 years with COVID-19. Critical disease was defined as an invasive mechanical ventilation requirement, intensive care unit admission, or death. Random effects models were used to estimate pooled odds ratios (OR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI), and heterogeneity was explored through subgroup analyses.

Results

Among 10,178 articles, 136 studies met the inclusion criteria for review. Data from 70 studies, which collectively examined 172,165 children and adolescents with COVID-19, were pooled for meta-analysis. In previously healthy children, the absolute risk of critical disease from COVID-19 was 4% (95% CI, 1%-10%). Compared with no comorbidities, the pooled OR for critical disease was 3.95 (95% CI, 2.78-5.63) for presence of one comorbidity and 9.51 (95% CI, 5.62-16.06) for ≥2 comorbidities. Key risk factors included cardiovascular and neurological disorders, chronic pulmonary conditions (excluding asthma), diabetes, obesity, and immunocompromise, all with statistically significant ORs >2.00.

Conclusions

While the absolute risk for critical COVID-19 in children and adolescents without underlying health conditions is relatively low, the presence of one or more comorbidities was associated with markedly increased risk. These findings support the importance of risk stratification in tailoring pediatric COVID-19 management.

Impact of COVID-19 on Lifestyle Habits and Emotional State of Childhood Cancer Survivors and Their Parents

OBJECTIVE

The COVID-19 pandemic and associated social distancing measures affected the physical and emotional state of children and parents worldwide. Survivors of childhood cancer may be particularly vulnerable to these effects. We aimed to evaluate the lifestyle habits and emotional states of childhood cancer survivors and their parents during the COVID-19 outbreak.

METHODS

Lifestyle habits and emotional distress were assessed in 43 childhood cancer survivors (aged 8-21 years) and their parents before and during the COVID-19 lockdown, using the PROMIS anxiety and depression modules and the "Mabat Youth" questionnaire.

RESULTS

Most parents (80.5%) reported eating more family meals during home confinement compared to their usual routine. Patients' physical activity levels did not change significantly during confinement, leisure-related screen time nearly doubled (p < 0.001), and sleep duration increased (p = 0.006). Anxiety levels of children (p = 0.045) and parents (p = 0.02) increased during confinement compared to pre-pandemic levels, with no significant changes in depression levels.

CONCLUSIONS

Contrary to concerns regarding lifestyle habits during the COVID-19 lockdown, eating behaviors of childhood cancer survivors improved, sleep duration increased, and physical activity remained unchanged. Still, screen time increased significantly. Parents of childhood cancer survivors reported higher anxiety levels for themselves and their children during home confinement. Our findings may assist medical and psycho-social teams in guiding parents of cancer survivors during similar circumstances in the future.

The Infection Profile and Survival of Children and Adolescents With COVID-19 Undergoing Cancer Treatment: A Cohort Study

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study was to evaluate the clinical evolution of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) in children and adolescents with cancer.

METHODS

Cohort involving patients undergoing cancer treatment, 19 years old and under, with the diagnosis of COVID-19 by real-time polymerase chain reaction, in a reference hospital, between March 2020 and November 2021. Data were collected from medical records and interviews with patients and/or guardians. The primary outcomes studied were severe/critical COVID-19 presentation, deaths from any cause and overall survival. The Cox proportional hazards multivariate regression analysis was performed to determine the risk of death.

RESULTS

Sixty-two participants were included, most (67.7%) were male, with a median age of 6.8 years. Severe/critical forms of COVID-19, observed in 24.2%, seemed to indicate that the pediatric population undergoing cancer treatment has a higher morbidity rate than the general pediatric population (8-9.2%). During follow-up (4.5-18 months), 20 patients (32.3%) completed their cancer treatment and 18 died (29%)-6 during hospitalization and 12 after discharge. In total 61.1% of deaths occurred within 63 days of a detectable real-time polymerase chain reaction. Patients with a higher risk of death presented with severe/critical COVID-19 [adjusted hazard risk (aHR): 8.51; 95% confidence interval (CI): 2.91-24.80; P < 0.00] solid tumors (aHR: 3.99; 95% CI: 1.43-11.12; P = 0.008) and diarrhea as a symptom of COVID-19 (aHR: 3.9; 95% CI: 1.23-12.73; P = 0.021).

CONCLUSIONS

These findings support the impact that severe acute respiratory syndrome-associated coronavirus 2 infection has on the population of children and adolescents with cancer, not only regarding immediate severity but also in their survival rate. Further studies evaluating long-term outcomes of COVID-19 in children and adolescents with cancer should be encouraged.

Clinical Impact and Risk Factors of Mortality in Hospitalized Children and Adolescents With Hematologic Diseases and COVID-19: An Observational Retrospective Cohort Study

This study aimed to evaluate the risk factors for COVID-19-related death in a large cohort of hospitalized children with hematological disorders. We performed an analysis of all pediatric patients with COVID-19 registered in a Brazilian nationwide surveillance database between February 2020 and May 2021. The primary outcome was time to death, which was evaluated considering discharge as a competitive risk by using the cumulative incidence function. Among 21,591 hospitalized pediatric patients with COVID-19, 596 cases (2.8%) had hematological diseases. Sixty-one children (27.4%) with malignant hematological diseases had a fatal outcome as compared with 4.2% and 7.4% of nonmalignant hematological and nonhematological cohorts, respectively ( P <0.0001). Children with hematological diseases had a significant increased hazard of death compared with those without these conditions (hazard ratio [HR],=2.40, 95% confidence interval, 1.98 - 2.91). In multivariable analysis, the factors associated with death were the presence of malignant hematological disease (HR, 2.22, 95% CI 1.47 - 3.36), age >10 years (HR 2.19, 95% CI 1.46 - 3.19), male (HR 1.52, 95% CI 1.02 - 2.27), oxygen saturation <95% (HR 2.02, 95% CI 1.38 - 2.96), and abdominal pain at admission (HR 2.75, 95% CI 1.76 - 4.27). Children with malignant hematological diseases had a higher risk of death compared with those without these disorders.

Clinical Characteristics and Outcomes of Children and Adolescents With Cancer Infected With SARS-CoV-2 at a Tertiary Care Medical Center in Jordan

BACKGROUND

Our knowledge about severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection is still evolving; its effects on children with cancer need to be studied more. The aim of this study is to present our experience with SARS-CoV-2 infection in this population and to highlight specific complications and outcomes.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This is a retrospective and prospective observational study, which involved 21 cancer patients below the age of 18 years in north Jordan. Data regarding their age, sex, cancer type and progression, phase of treatment, and others were collected and reviewed. Patients were classified into confirmed, probable, and suspect according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's (CDC) 2021 classification.

RESULTS

A total of 21 patients with malignancy were included. Ten patients were males (48%). Mean age of 8.8 years (3 mo to 18 y). Two patients (9.5%) had died; one (4.7%) death was coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19)-related and the other one (4.7%) was due to cancer progression. Two patients (9.5%) had multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children. Both disease progression and new malignancies were documented in 11 (52%) of our patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Diagnosis of COVID-19 should not distract physicians from investigating new malignancy or relapse as they may come together or may be related to COVID-19 infection. More studies are needed to identify the contribution of SARS-CoV-2 in the pathogenesis of cancer.

Risk factors for a severe disease course in children with SARS-COV-2 infection following hematopoietic cell transplantation in the pre-Omicron period: a prospective multinational Infectious Disease Working Party from the European Society for Blood and Marrow Transplantation group (EBMT) and the Spanish Group of Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation (GETH) study

Risk factors for severe SARS-Cov-2 infection course are poorly described in children following hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT). In this international study, we analyzed factors associated with a severe course (intensive care unit (ICU) admission and/or mortality) in post-HCT children. Eighty-nine children (58% male; median age 9 years (min-max 1-18)) who received an allogeneic (85; 96%) or an autologous (4; 4%) HCT were reported from 28 centers (18 countries). Median time from HCT to SARS-Cov-2 infection was 7 months (min-max 0-181). The most common clinical manifestations included fever (37; 42%) and cough (26; 29%); 37 (42%) were asymptomatic. Nine (10%) children following allo-HCT required ICU care. Seven children (8%) following allo-HCT, died at a median of 22 days after SARS-Cov-2 diagnosis. In a univariate analysis, the probability of a severe disease course was higher in allo-HCT children with chronic GVHD, non-malignant disease, immune suppressive treatment (specifically, mycophenolate), moderate immunodeficiency score, low Lansky score, fever, cough, coinfection, pulmonary radiological findings, and high C-reactive protein. In conclusion, SARS-Cov-2 infection in children following HCT was frequently asymptomatic. Despite this, 10% needed ICU admission and 8% died in our cohort. Certain HCT, underlying disease, and SARS-Cov-2 related factors were associated with a severe disease course.

The Impact of the Early COVID-19 Global Pandemic on Children Undergoing Active Cancer Treatment and Their Parents

(1) Background: The COVID-19 global pandemic has impacted people worldwide with unique implications for vulnerable groups. In this cross-sectional study, we examined the impact of the early pandemic on children undergoing active cancer treatment and their parents. (2) Methods: In May 2020, 30 parents of children undergoing active cancer treatment completed an online survey regarding the impact of COVID-19 on their child's cancer care, perceived utility of telemedicine, and child and parent mental health status. (3) Results: Most participants (87%) reported that they did not experience any changes to major cancer treatments. Among those who reported using telemedicine, 78% reported this to be beneficial. Over half of the participants reported that their child's mental health status was worse now than prior to the COVID-19 global pandemic. Parent-reported child anxiety scores were significantly higher for those who reported changes to mental health care for their child compared to those who did not report the same, t(25.99) = -3.04, p = 0.005. (4) Conclusion: Child and parent mental health status were affected when compared to pre-pandemic. Telemedicine appears to be a promising complement to face-to-face meetings for some families and warrants further exploration.

Vaccines against SARS-CoV-2 are safe to administer in patients with antibodies to pegaspargase

OBJECTIVE

Allergic reactions to pegaspargase during ALL therapy are typically due to antibodies against polyethylene glycol (PEG), which is also used as a stabilizing agent in mRNA-based SARS-CoV-2 vaccines. To evaluate the safety of these vaccines in patients with anti-pegaspargase antibodies.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed the records of patients treated for ALL who had received SARS-CoV-2 vaccinations. All patients had antibodies against pegaspargase assayed during ALL therapy prospectively and in response to clinical allergies. Symptoms of intolerance to vaccination were gathered retrospectively from chart abstraction.

RESULTS

SARS-CoV-2 vaccination was well tolerated in all 78 patients with prior exposure to pegaspargase as part of their leukemia therapy. No reactions were observed in the 54 patients without a history of anti-pegaspargase antibodies or in 19 patients with antibodies who received mRNA vaccination. 1 patient who received the polysorbate containing Janssen vaccine experienced mild symptoms after vaccination not meeting the criteria of clinical allergy which spontaneously resolved within 25 minutes.

CONCLUSION

SARS-CoV-2 vaccination is safe in this population.

Global caregiver perspectives on COVID-19 immunization in childhood cancer: A qualitative study

Introduction

SARS-CoV-2 has led to an unprecedented pandemic where vulnerable populations, such as those with childhood cancer, face increased risk of morbidity and mortality. COVID-19 vaccines are a critical intervention to control the pandemic and ensure patient safety. This study explores global caregiver's perspectives related to COVID-19 immunization in the context of pediatric cancer management.

Methods

A mixed methods survey was developed based on consensus questions with iterative feedback from global medical professional and caregiver groups and distributed globally to caregivers of childhood cancer via electronic and paper routes. We present qualitative findings through inductive content analysis of caregiver free-text responses.

Results

A total of 184 participants provided qualitative responses, 29.3% of total survey respondents, with a total of 271 codes applied. Codes focused on themes related to safety and effectiveness (n = 95, 35.1%), logistics (n = 69, 25.5%), statements supporting or opposing vaccination (n = 55, 20.3%), and statements discussing the limited availability of information (n = 31, 11.4%). Within the theme of safety and effectiveness, safety itself was the most commonly used code (n = 66, 24.4% of total segments and 69.5% of safety and effectiveness codes), followed by risks versus benefits (n = 18, 18.9% of safety and effectiveness codes) and efficacy (n = 11, 11.6%).

Discussion

This study provides insights to guide healthcare professionals and caregiver peers in supporting families during the complex decision-making process for COVID-19 vaccination. These findings highlight the multidimensionality of concerns and considerations of caregivers of children with cancer regarding COVID-19 vaccination and suggest that certain perspectives transcend borders and cultures.

Safety of mRNA-based COVID-19 vaccination in paediatric patients with a PEG-asparaginase allergy

Background

Children treated for a malignancy are at risk to develop serious illness from a COVID-19 infection. Pegylated E. coli asparaginase (PEG-asparaginase) is used in the treatment of acute lymphoblastic leukemia. Allergy to this drug is common and both asparaginase and polyethylene glycol (PEG) are identified as possible antigens. The mRNA-based vaccines against COVID-19 contain PEG as a stabilizing component.

Methods

We developed a protocol to be able to safely vaccinate children with a PEG-asparaginase allergy. All patients with a history of allergy to PEG-asparaginase have been included and skin prick testing for various PEGs was performed before vaccination with the mRNA Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine.

Results

Twelve children between six and 16 years old were vaccinated, without allergic reaction. None of them got a positive skin prick test for PEG. Ten patients had pre-existing IgG or IgM antibodies against PEG.

Conclusion

Children with a PEG-asparaginase allergy can be safely vaccinated against COVID-19 with mRNA vaccines containing PEG irrespective of IgG/IgM antibodies to PEG-asparaginase. Routine skin prick testing in patients with PEG-asparaginase allergy does not seem to be of added value.

Survival analysis and mortality predictors of COVID-19 in a pediatric cohort in Mexico

Background

The new coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 pandemic has been relatively less lethal in children; however, poor prognosis and mortality has been associated with factors such as access to health services. Mexico remained on the list of the ten countries with the highest case fatality rate (CFR) in adults. It is of interest to know the behavior of COVID-19 in the pediatric population. The aim of this study was to identify clinical and sociodemographic variables associated with mortality due to COVID-19 in pediatric patients.

Objective

Using National open data and information from the Ministry of Health, Mexico, this cohort study aimed to identify clinical and sociodemographic variables associated with COVID-19 mortality in pediatric patients.

Method

A cohort study was designed based on National open data from the Ministry of Health, Mexico, for the period April 2020 to January 2022, and included patients under 18 years of age with confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection. Variables analyzed were age, health services used, and comorbidities (obesity, diabetes, asthma, cardiovascular disease, immunosuppression, high blood pressure, and chronic kidney disease). Follow-up duration was 60 days, and primary outcomes were death, hospitalization, and requirement of intensive care. Statistical analysis included survival analysis, prediction models created using the Cox proportional hazards model, and Kaplan-Meier estimation curves.

Results

The cohort included 261,099 cases with a mean age of 11.2 ± 4 years, and of these, 11,569 (4.43%) were hospitalized and 1,028 (0.39%) died. Variables associated with risk of mortality were age under 12 months, the presence of comorbidities, health sector where they were treated, and first wave of infection.

Conclusion

Based on data in the National database, we show that the pediatric fatality rate due to SARS-CoV-2 is similar to that seen in other countries. Access to health services and distribution of mortality were heterogeneous. Vulnerable groups were patients younger than 12 months and those with comorbidities.

Clinical review of COVID-19 in children and adolescents with cancer: Experience from a tertiary care center in East India

Children with underlying cancer are often immunocompromised. Data on severity of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) in children with cancer and its outcomes is emerging. Treatment protocols of specific cancers are decided based on the infrastructure, availability of supportive-care, and logistic issues of the locality. The purpose of the study was clinical analysis of COVID-19 in children and adolescents with cancer. The retrospective observational study was conducted at a tertiary healthcare-center in East India. Children and adolescents (aged 0-19 years) with cancer and under treatment with reverse-transcriptase-polymerase-chain-reaction (RT-PCR) confirmed COVID-19 between 5-July-2020 and 5-December-2020 were studied. Median age of the 68 identified patients was six years. Acute leukemia was the most common (66%) diagnosis. COVID-19 was asymptomatic/mildly symptomatic in 91% and moderate to severe in only 9% of patients. Fever (87%) was the commonest symptom, followed-by cough/coryza (75%). Three patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and severe/critical COVID-19 and associated neutropenic sepsis were required transfer to the intensive-care-unit (ICU) for management. Three (4.4%) patients succumbed with COVID-19. Delay in treatment was observed in 63.2% of patients, and the median duration of delay was 28 days after acquiring COVID-19. Median time to attain negative COVID-19 RT-PCR was 16 days, and eight patients were repeat positives. While pediatric and adolescent cancer patients on active treatment may have a higher risk of mortality from severe COVID-19 than their healthy counterparts, the risk may be much lower than deemed. It is essential to continue cancer therapy in these children. Delay in treatment remains a concern.

Benefit-risk evaluation of COVID-19 vaccination in special population groups of interest

Several population groups display an increased risk of severe disease and mortality following SARS-CoV-2 infection. These include those who are immunocompromised (IC), have a cancer diagnosis, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection or chronic inflammatory disease including autoimmune disease, primary immunodeficiencies, and those with kidney or liver disease. As such, improved understanding of the course of COVID-19 disease, as well as the efficacy, safety, and benefit-risk profiles of COVID-19 vaccines in these vulnerable groups is paramount in order to inform health policy makers and identify evidence-based vaccination strategies. In this review, we seek to summarize current data, including recommendations by national health authorities, on the impact and benefit-risk profiles of COVID-19 vaccination in these populations. Moving forward, although significant efforts have been made to elucidate and characterize COVID-19 disease course and vaccine responses in these groups, further larger-scale and longer-term evaluation will be instrumental to help further guide management and vaccination strategies, particularly given concerns about waning of vaccine-induced immunity and the recent surge of transmission with SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern.

Favorable outcome of SARS-CoV-2 infection in pediatric hematology oncology patients during the second and third pandemic waves in Italy: a multicenter analysis from the Infectious Diseases Working Group of the Associazione Italiana di Ematologia e Oncologia Pediatrica (AIEOP)

COVID-19 has a mild clinical course with low mortality rate in general pediatric population, while variable outcomes have been described in children with cancer. Infectious diseases working party of the AIEOP collected data on the clinical characteristics and outcomes of SARS-CoV-2 infections in pediatric oncology/hematology patients from April 2020 to May 2021, including the second and the third waves of the pandemic in Italy. Factors potentially associated with moderate, severe, or critical COVID-19 were analyzed. Of the 153 SARS-Cov2 infections recorded, 100 were asymptomatic and 53 symptomatic. The course of COVID-19 was mild in 41, moderate in 2, severe in 5, and critical in 5 children. A total of 40.5% of patients were hospitalized, ten requiring oxygen support and 5 admitted to the intensive care unit. Antibiotics and steroids were the most used therapies. No patient died due to SARS-CoV-2 infection. Infections occurring early (< 60 days) after the diagnosis of the underlying disease or after SCT were associated to moderate, severe, and critical disease compared to infections occurring late (> 60 days) or during maintenance therapy. In the patients on active chemotherapy, 59% withdrew the treatment for a median of 15 days. SARS-CoV-2 presented a favorable outcome in children with cancer in Italy during the pandemic. Modification of therapy represents a major concern in this population. Our findings suggest considering regular chemotherapy continuation, particularly in patients on maintenance therapy or infected late after the diagnosis.

Updated Guidance on Use and Prioritization of Monoclonal Antibody Therapy for Treatment of COVID-19 in Adolescents

BACKGROUND

Starting in November 2020, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued Emergency Use Authorizations (EUAs) for multiple novel virus-neutralizing monoclonal antibody therapies, including bamlanivimab monotherapy (now revoked), bamlanivimab and etesivimab, casirivimab and imdevimab (REGEN-COV), and sotrovimab, for treatment or postexposure prophylaxis of Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) in adolescents (≥12 years of age) and adults with certain high-risk conditions. Previous guidance is now updated based on new evidence and clinical experience.

METHODS

A panel of experts in pediatric infectious diseases, pediatric infectious diseases pharmacotherapy, and pediatric critical care medicine from 18 geographically diverse US institutions was convened. Through a series of teleconferences and web-based surveys, a guidance statement was developed and refined based on a review of the best available evidence and expert opinion.

RESULTS

The course of COVID-19 in children and adolescents is typically mild, though more severe disease is occasionally observed. Evidence supporting risk stratification is incomplete. Randomized controlled trials have demonstrated the benefit of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2)-specific monoclonal antibody therapies in adults, but data on safety and efficacy in children or adolescents are limited. Potential harms associated with infusion reactions or anaphylaxis are reportedly low in adults.

CONCLUSIONS

Based on evidence available as of August 31, 2021, the panel suggests a risk-based approach to administration of SARS-CoV-2 monoclonal antibody therapy. Therapy is suggested for the treatment of mild to moderate COVID-19 in adolescents (≥12 years of age) at the highest risk of progression to hospitalization or severe disease. Therapeutic decision-making about those at moderate risk of severe disease should be individualized. Use as postexposure prophylaxis could be considered for those at the highest risk who have a high-risk exposure but are not yet diagnosed with COVID-19. Clinicians and health systems should ensure safe and timely implementation of these therapeutics that does not exacerbate existing healthcare disparities.

Difficult acute lymphoblastic leukaemia diagnosis in a paediatric patient with mixed presentation of COVID-19 acute respiratory failure and multisystemic inflammatory syndrome

New diagnoses of leukaemia and other malignancies are recently being made in paediatric patients with COVID-19. The rates of mortality and morbidity in some of these children are expected to be higher. In new cases, concurrent diagnosis can be difficult because multisystemic inflammatory syndrome (MIS-C) and malignancies have similar clinical presentations. We present the case of a preteenage child where the diagnosis of leukaemia was complicated and delayed by a multisystem involvement and an inconclusive bone marrow study. Clinical teams managing children with COVID-19 and MIS-C should suspect leukaemia and other malignancies when the clinical course is complicated and bone marrow suppression is persistent. Prompt diagnosis will allow start of treatment on time, minimising complications.

Association of Cancer Diagnosis and Therapeutic Stage With Mortality in Pediatric Patients With COVID-19, Prospective Multicenter Cohort Study From Latin America

Background

Children with cancer are at risk of critical disease and mortality from COVID-19 infection. In this study, we describe the clinical characteristics of pediatric patients with cancer and COVID-19 from multiple Latin American centers and risk factors associated with mortality in this population.

Methods

This study is a multicenter, prospective cohort study conducted at 12 hospitals from 6 Latin American countries (Argentina, Bolivia, Colombia, Ecuador, Honduras and Peru) from April to November 2021. Patients younger than 14 years of age that had an oncological diagnosis and COVID-19 or multisystemic inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C) who were treated in the inpatient setting were included. The primary exposure was the diagnosis and treatment status, and the primary outcome was mortality. We defined "new diagnosis" as patients with no previous diagnosis of cancer, "established diagnosis" as patients with cancer and ongoing treatment and "relapse" as patients with cancer and ongoing treatment that had a prior cancer-free period. A frequentist analysis was performed including a multivariate logistic regression for mortality.

Results

Two hundred and ten patients were included in the study; 30 (14%) died during the study period and 67% of patients who died were admitted to critical care. Demographics were similar in survivors and non-survivors. Patients with low weight for age (<-2SD) had higher mortality (28 vs. 3%, p = 0.019). There was statistically significant difference of mortality between patients with new diagnosis (36.7%), established diagnosis (1.4%) and relapse (60%), (p <0.001). Most patients had hematological cancers (69%) and they had higher mortality (18%) compared to solid tumors (6%, p= 0.032). Patients with concomitant bacterial infections had higher mortality (40%, p = 0.001). MIS-C, respiratory distress, cardiovascular symptoms, altered mental status and acute kidney injury on admission were associated with higher mortality. Acidosis, hypoxemia, lymphocytosis, severe neutropenia, anemia and thrombocytopenia on admission were also associated with mortality. A multivariate logistic regression showed risk factors associated with mortality: concomitant bacterial infection OR 3 95%CI (1.1-8.5), respiratory symptoms OR 5.7 95%CI (1.7-19.4), cardiovascular OR 5.2 95%CI (1.2-14.2), new cancer diagnosis OR 12 95%CI (1.3-102) and relapse OR 25 95%CI (2.9-214).

Conclusion

Our study shows that pediatric patients with new onset diagnosis of cancer and patients with relapse have higher odds of all-cause mortality in the setting of COVID-19. This information would help develop an early identification of patients with cancer and COVID-19 with higher risk of mortality.

COVID-19 in Children with Cancer and Continuation of Cancer-Directed Therapy During the Infection

OBJECTIVE

To report the experience with COVID-19 in children with cancer at the largest tertiary-cancer care and referral center in India.

METHODS

This study is a single tertiary center experience on COVID-19 in children with cancer and continuation of cancer-directed therapy in them. Children ≤ 15 y on active cancer treatment detected with COVID-19 until September 15^th, 2020 were prospectively followed up in the study. Patients were managed in accordance with well-laid guidelines. Treatment was continued for children with COVID-19 who were clinically stable and on intensive treatment for various childhood cancers.

RESULTS

One hundred twenty-two children (median age 8 y; range 1-15 y, male:female 1.7:1) with cancer were diagnosed with COVID-19. Of 118 children, 99 (83.9%), 60 (50.8%), 43 (36.4%), 26 (22.0%), and 6 (5.1%) had RT-PCR positivity at 14, 21, 28, 35, and 60 d from diagnosis of COVID-19, respectively. Scheduled risk-directed intravenous chemotherapy was delivered in 70 (90.9%) of 77 children on active systemic treatment with a median delay of 14 d (range 0-48 d) and no increased toxicities. All-cause mortality rate was 7.4% (n = 9) and COVID-19 related mortality rate was 4.9% (n = 6). One hundred-fifteen (94.2%) children with COVID-19 did not require any form of respiratory support during the course of infection.

CONCLUSIONS

COVID-19 was not a major deterrent for the continuation of active cancer treatment despite persistent RT-PCR positivity. The long-term assessment of treatment adaptations requires further prospective follow-up and real-time addressal.

The Global Impact of COVID-19 on Childhood Cancer Outcomes and Care Delivery - A Systematic Review

Background

Childhood cancer represents a leading cause of death and disease burden in high income countries (HICs) and low-and-middle income countries (LMICs). It is postulated that the current COVID-19 pandemic has hampered global development of pediatric oncology care programs. This systematic review aimed to comprehensively review the global impact of COVID-19 on childhood cancer clinical outcomes and care delivery.

Methods

A systematic search was conducted on PubMed, Embase, Medline, and the African Medical Index from inception to November 3, 2021 following PRISMA guidelines. A manual search was performed to identify additional relevant studies. Articles were selected based on predetermined eligibility criteria.

Findings

The majority of studies reported patients with cancer and COVID-19 presenting as asymptomatic (HICs: 33.7%, LMICs: 22.0%) or with primary manifestations of fever (HICs: 36.1%, LMICs: 51.4%) and respiratory symptoms (HICs: 29.6%, LMICs: 11.7%). LMICs also reported a high frequency of patients presenting with cough (23.6%) and gastrointestinal symptoms (10.6%). The majority of patients were generally noted to have a good prognosis; however the crude mortality rate was higher in LMICs when compared to HICs (8.0% vs 1.8%). Moreover, the pandemic has resulted in delays and interruptions to cancer therapies and delays in childhood cancer diagnoses in both HICs and LMICs. However, these findings were disproportionately reported in LMICs, with significant staff shortages, supply chain disruptions, and limited access to cancer therapies for patients.

Conclusions

The COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in delays and interruptions to childhood cancer therapies and delays in childhood cancer diagnoses, and disproportionately so within LMICs. This review provides lessons learned for future system-wide disruptions to care, as well as provides key points for moving forward better with care through the remainder of this pandemic.

Systematic Review Registration

CRD42021266758, https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?RecordID=266758

Whole-Genome Sequencing of SARS-CoV-2 Infection in a Cluster of Immunocompromised Children in Indonesia

Background

Thus far, Indonesia has recorded over 4,000,000 confirmed COVID-19 cases and 144,000 fatalities; 12.8% of cases have been in children under 18 years. Whole-genome viral sequencing (WGS) of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has been demonstrated to help differentiate hospital-acquired infection from community-acquired coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) infection. Our study highlighted the use of WGS to investigate the origin of infection among pediatric oncology patients in Jakarta. The aim of our study was to evaluate clinical and laboratory characteristics and also the efficacy of using WGS to confirm hospital-acquired COVID-19 infection in a cluster of immunocompromised children within a single ward of a tertiary hospital in metropolitan Jakarta based on quasispecies, viral load, and admission dates.

Method

Real-time reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) from nasopharyngeal (NP) swabs was used to diagnose the patients and also guardians and healthcare workers (HCWs) in the ward, followed by WGS of RT-PCR positive cases to establish their phylogenetic relationships.

Result

Using WGS, we showed that SARS-CoV-2 transmission in a cluster of children with underlying malignancy was characterized by high similarity of whole virus genome, which suggests nosocomial transmission.

Imaging of Hematological Patients in the Era of COVID-19

The COVID-19 pandemic, caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), resulted in changes in management and imaging routines for patients with hematological malignancies. Treating physicians had to familiarize themselves with a new disease, with distinct imaging manifestations, sometimes overlapping with other infections prevalent in this patient population. In some aspects, infected hematological patients might exhibit a different disease course, and routine imaging in asymptomatic hematological patients may result in unexpected COVID-19 findings, implying covert infection, that should be further explored. Furthermore, some complications of hematological diseases and treatments may present with findings similar to COVID-19 manifestations, and treating physicians must consider both possibilities in the differential diagnosis. In this review, we aimed to present the influence the COVID-19 pandemic had on hematological malignancy imaging.

Recommendations for the management of COVID-19 in patients with haematological malignancies or haematopoietic cell transplantation, from the 2021 European Conference on Infections in Leukaemia (ECIL 9)

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) is a novel virus that spread worldwide from 2019 causing the Coronavirus disease 19 (COVID-19) pandemic. SARS-CoV-2 infection is characterised by an initial viral phase followed in some patients by a severe inflammatory phase. Importantly, immunocompromised patients may have a prolonged viral phase, shedding infectious viral particles for months, and absent or dysfunctional inflammatory phase. Among haematological patients, COVID-19 has been associated with high mortality rate in acute leukaemia, high risk-myelodysplastic syndromes, and after haematopoietic cell transplant and chimeric-antigen-receptor-T therapies. The clinical symptoms and signs were similar to that reported for the overall population, but the severity and outcome were worse. The deferral of immunodepleting cellular therapy treatments is recommended for SARS-CoV-2 positive patient, while in the other at-risk cases, the haematological treatment decisions must be weighed between individual risks and benefits. The gold standard for the diagnosis is the detection of viral RNA by nucleic acid testing on nasopharyngeal-swabbed sample, which provides high sensitivity and specificity; while rapid antigen tests have a lower sensitivity, especially in asymptomatic patients. The prevention of SARS-CoV-2 infection is based on strict infection control measures recommended for aerosol-droplet-and-contact transmission. Vaccinations against SARS-CoV-2 has shown high efficacy in reducing community transmission, hospitalisation and deaths due to severe COVID-19 disease in the general population, but immunosuppressed/haematology patients may have lower sero-responsiveness to vaccinations. Moreover, the recent emergence of new variants may require vaccine modifications and strategies to improve efficacy in these vulnerable patients. Beyond supportive care, the specific treatment is directed at viral replication control (antivirals, anti-spike monoclonal antibodies) and, in patients who need it, to the control of inflammation (dexamethasone, anti-Il-6 agents, and others). However, the benefit of all these various prophylactic and therapeutic treatments in haematology patients deserves further studies.

Clinical characteristics and mortality predictors of patients with cancer hospitalized by COVID-19 in a pediatric third-level referral center

BACKGROUND

More than 135 million COVID-19 cases (coronavirus disease 2019) have been reported worldwide until today, with over 2.9 million deaths. Several studies have demonstrated that disease severity is lower in the pediatric population than in adults; however, differences are described in patients with chronic diseases, including oncological patients. Current world literature suggests patients with comorbidities, including cancer, have an increased risk of unfortunate outcomes. Therefore, our objective was to describe the clinical characteristics and epidemiological factors associated with mortality in a cohort of pediatric cancer patients hospitalized for COVID-19.

METHODS

This is a retrospective, descriptive study of the cases of patients with cancer hospitalized for COVID-19. A total of 40 pediatrics were included in the analysis. Data from pediatric patients with COVID-19 included clinical and epidemiological records, laboratory, imaging studies, COVID-19 diagnostic methods, and medical treatment.

RESULTS

Of the 40 pediatric patients admitted with cancer with a confirmed diagnosis of COVID-19, 42.5% were solid tumors, 40% leukemias, and 17.5% lymphomas. The clinical parameters associated with mortality were stage IV tumor (p = 0.029) and intubation (p < 0.001). The biochemical factors associated with lower survival were thrombocytopenia under 25,000 cells/mm³ (p < 0.001), D-dimer over 1 μg/ml (p = 0.003), clinical malnutrition (p = 0.023), and disseminated intravascular coagulation (p = 0.03).

CONCLUSION

Our findings showed that the fever was the most frequent symptom, and the clinical parameters associated with mortality were stage IV tumor, intubation, saturation percentage, RDW, platelets, creatinine, ALT, D-dimer, ferritin, and FiO2 percentage. The thrombocytopenia, D-dimer, nutritional status, and disseminated intravascular coagulation were significantly associated with lower survival.

Chronic Myeloid Leukemia in Children: Immune Function and Vaccinations

Children with CML need TKI treatment for many years, and the lack of knowledge about immune dysfunction with TKI has hindered routine immunizations. This review attempts to provide an overview of the effects of TKIs licensed for children (e.g., imatinib, dasatinib, and nilotinib) on immune function, as well as its implications on immunizations. We discuss surveillance strategies (e.g., immunoglobulin blood serum levels and hepatitis B reactivation) and immunizations. All inactivated vaccines (e.g., influenza, pneumococcal, and streptococcal) can be given during the treatment of CML in the chronic phase, although their efficacy may be lower. As shown in single cases of children and adults with CML, live vaccines (e.g., varicella, measles, mumps, rubella, and yellow fever) may be administered under defined circumstances with great precautions. We also highlight important aspects of COVID-19 in this patient population (e.g., the outcome of COVID-19 infection in adults with CML and in children with varying hemato-oncological diseases) and discuss the highly dynamic field of presently available different vaccination options. In conclusion, TKI treatment for CML causes humoral and cellular immune dysfunction, which is mild in most patients, and thus infectious complications are rare. Routine immunizations are important for health maintenance of children, but vaccinations for children with CML on TKI therapy should be carefully considered.

COVID-19 infection in children with underlying malignancies in Iran

OBJECTIVES

Although coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) prognosis is mostly good in pediatric patients with no underlying diseases, there are a few reports on children with oncological underlying malignancies. This study aimed to describe the clinical and laboratory features of 20 children with COVID-19 who had underlying malignancies in an Iranian referral pediatrics hospital.

METHODS

All children under 15-year-old of age with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) positive real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and presence of an underlying malignancy were included in the study.

RESULTS

In this study, among 20 patients, 11 were male (55%). The mean age of the patients was 6.0 ± 4.1 years. Twelve patients (60%) had acute lymphocytic leukemia, two had acute myeloid leukemia (10%), and six had solid organ tumors (30%). The most common symptoms were fever (65%) and cough (65%). We reported severe pneumonia in seven hospitalized patients (35%) and three patients (20%) required intensive care unit admission and mechanical ventilation. Procalcitonin was normal in 73% of the cases (11 out of 15), but it was highly elevated in four cases (27%). Five patients (25%) had positive blood cultures and a mortality of 20% was reported.

CONCLUSIONS

This is the largest study on SARS-CoV-2 infected pediatric patients with underlying malignancies in Iran. Since the risk of exposure to SARS-CoV-2 and even death in children with malignancy, either in the hospital or community setting during the pandemic is high, special precautions to reduce the risk of transmission are highly suggested.

Clinical presentations and outcomes of children with cancer and COVID-19: A systematic review

Information regarding the novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in pediatric oncology is limited. We conducted a systematic review of the available published literature on children with cancer affected by COVID-19. The last date of the study search was October 20, 2020, and 33 studies comprising 226 children were included for the final analysis. Data were extracted in a predefined data collection form, and the variables were extracted and analyzed. Patients with hematological malignancies were more in number. Males and children on intensive treatment were more frequently affected. Fever was the commonest symptom. The disease was asymptomatic/mild in 48% and severe in 9.6%. Consolidation, peribronchial cuffing, and consolidation with ground glass opacities were the common imaging findings. Hydroxychloroquine was the most frequently used drug for COVID-19. About 10% of children required intensive care, and about 32% had oxygen requirements. The percentage of children who died due to COVID-19 was 4.9%. The severity, morbidity, and mortality of COVID-19 in pediatric oncology were more compared to the general pediatric population. This information can help in risk stratification for the management of COVID-19.