COVID-19 Infection in Children and Adolescents with Cancer in Bangladesh Shishu Hospital and Institute

Abstract

Introduction: Children with cancer are frequently immunocompromised. While children are generally thought to be at less risk of severe SARS-CoV-2 infection than adults, comprehensive population-based evidence for the risk in children with cancer is unavailable. We aimed to produce evidence of the incidence and outcomes from SARS-CoV-2 in children with cancer attending at Bangladesh Shishu Hospital and Institute in Dhaka, Bangladesh. Objective: This study aimed to determine the rate of COVID-19 infection in children with cancer. Methods: This was a prospective observational study done in Bangladesh Shishu Hospital and Institute. We include the patients of leukemia and other malignancies attending our Hematology department for treatment. We have 400 cases of acute leukemia and other malignancies. All patients who fulfilled the inclusion criteria were screened for eligibility and were enrolled in the study and who do not have any exclusion criteria and parents provide informed consent. At enrollment detailed history was taken, thorough clinical examination performed and findings was recorded in a questionnaire. For all enrolled cases, Complete blood count, RT PCR for COVID-19 or Rapid antigen test for COVID-19, CXR, LFT, RFT, was performed. After 10 days of COVID positive cases, 2nd sample of RT PCR for COVID-19 or Rapid antigen were done. Results: Among the 400 patients COVID positive was found 32 patients. Remaining 368 patients are COVID negative. Among the 32 positive patients 18 needs hospitalization. Pulmonary infection was found in 10 patients. 12 patients need oxygen therapy. Two patients need respiratory support. Among 32 patients 2 patients was expired. Chemotherapy was interrupted in 20 patients. Conclusion: Children with cancer with SARS-CoV-2 infection appear at increased risk of severe infection compared to the general paediatric population, it may be due to their low immunity in compared to healthy children.