An evidence-based guide to SARS-CoV-2 vaccination of patients on immunotherapies in dermatology

J Am Acad Dermatol. 2021 Jun;84(6):1652-1666. doi: 10.1016/j.jaad.2021.01.047. Epub 2021 Jan 19.

Abstract

Immune-mediated diseases and immunotherapeutics can negatively affect normal immune functioning and, consequently, vaccine safety and response. The COVID-19 pandemic has incited research aimed at developing a novel severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) vaccine. As SARS-CoV-2 vaccines are developed and made available, the assessment of anticipated safety and efficacy in patients with immune-mediated dermatologic diseases and requiring immunosuppressive and/or immunomodulatory therapy is particularly important. A review of the literature was conducted by a multidisciplinary committee to provide guidance on the safety and efficacy of SARS-CoV-2 vaccination for dermatologists and other clinicians when prescribing immunotherapeutics. The vaccine platforms being used to develop SARS-CoV-2 vaccines are expected to be safe and potentially effective for dermatology patients on immunotherapeutics. Current guidelines for the vaccination of an immunocompromised host remain appropriate when considering future administration of SARS-CoV-2 vaccines.

Keywords: COVID-19; SARS-CoV-2; immunomodulatory therapy; immunosuppressive therapy; vaccine.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • COVID-19 / prevention & control*
  • COVID-19 Vaccines* / adverse effects
  • Evidence-Based Medicine
  • Humans
  • Immunocompromised Host*
  • Immunologic Factors / therapeutic use
  • Immunosuppressive Agents / therapeutic use
  • Risk Assessment
  • SARS-CoV-2
  • Skin Diseases / immunology*
  • Skin Diseases / therapy

Substances

  • COVID-19 Vaccines
  • Immunologic Factors
  • Immunosuppressive Agents