Managing HIV-Associated Hodgkin Lymphoma During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Case Report and Literature Review.

in Viruses by Monica-Daniela Padurariu-Covit, Mihaela Andreescu, Elena Niculet, Alina Plesea-Condratovici, Manuela Arbune

TLDR

  • A 57-year-old patient with HIV infection, COVID-19 pneumonia, and Hodgkin lymphoma experienced delayed diagnosis and treatment due to the pandemic, highlighting the need for timely management of complex patients with multiple comorbidities.
  • This case underscores the importance of prioritizing patient care during pandemics, particularly for those with chronic conditions, to prevent adverse outcomes.

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic delayed the consultation of many patients with specialists. We present the case of a 57-year-old patient with HIV infection, COVID-19 pneumonia, and Hodgkin lymphoma. Discordant immunohistochemistry results from biopsy samples delayed the hematological diagnosis and initiation of oncological therapy. The late diagnosis of HIV infection at the stage of severe immunosuppression, along with advanced Hodgkin lymphoma and COVID-19 co-infection, represents a complex pathogenic triad that is challenging to manage. Healthcare-associated COVID-19 infections pose a significant risk during the pandemic for chronic patients requiring frequent hospital visits.

Overview

  • The study presents the case of a 57-year-old patient with HIV infection, COVID-19 pneumonia, and Hodgkin lymphoma, highlighting the challenges of managing a complex pathogenic triad.
  • The patient experienced delayed consultation with specialists due to the COVID-19 pandemic, leading to discordant immunohistochemistry results and delayed diagnosis of Hodgkin lymphoma.
  • The case highlights the importance of timely diagnosis and treatment in patients with chronic conditions, particularly during pandemics, to prevent adverse outcomes.

Comparative Analysis & Findings

  • The study presents a case report, not a comparative analysis of multiple patients.
  • However, it highlights the challenges of managing the triad of HIV infection, COVID-19, and Hodgkin lymphoma, which can have severe consequences if not managed promptly.
  • The delayed diagnosis and initiation of oncological therapy due to discordant immunohistochemistry results demonstrate the complexity of managing patients with multiple comorbidities during pandemics.

Implications and Future Directions

  • The study underscores the importance of prioritizing patient care during pandemics, particularly for those with chronic conditions, to prevent delayed diagnosis and treatment.
  • Future research should focus on developing strategies to improve healthcare workflows and communication during pandemics to ensure timely diagnosis and treatment for complex patients like this case.
  • Identifying effective strategies for preventing healthcare-associated COVID-19 infections in chronic patients requiring frequent hospital visits is crucial for minimizing risk and improving outcomes.
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