To evaluate the impact of anti-CD20 therapy, specifically rituximab (RTX), on SARS-CoV-2 infection and COVID-19-related outcomes in immunocompromised individuals, highlighting its clinical significance.
Key Findings:
RTX use was not significantly associated with an increased risk of SARS-CoV-2 infection in vaccinated individuals (aOR 1.75; 95% CI, .82–3.72; P = .149).
RTX use was linked to higher hospitalization rates for COVID-19 in vaccinated individuals (aOR 2.64; 95% CI, 1.14–6.10; P = .024).
RTX use was associated with a significantly higher risk of ICU admission in vaccinated individuals (aOR 10.89; 95% CI, 1.44–82.46; P = .021).
In unvaccinated individuals, RTX use showed no statistically significant associations with severe COVID-19 outcomes.
Interpretation:
RTX use is associated with increased risks of severe COVID-19 outcomes in vaccinated individuals, emphasizing the need for careful consideration of anti-CD20 therapy during the pandemic and its implications for patient management.
Limitations:
The study may not account for all confounding factors influencing COVID-19 outcomes, including potential biases in data collection.
Data was limited to a specific population in Korea, which may not be generalizable to other regions.
Conclusion:
Clinicians should weigh the risks and benefits of anti-CD20 therapy, particularly in vaccinated immunocompromised patients, during the COVID-19 pandemic, considering the implications of vaccination status.
