Clinical features and management of pediatric patients presenting with new onset acute leukemia and concomitant COVID-19

ABSTRACT

Background: Infections represent a significant cause of morbidity and mortality in pediatric patients undergoing treatment for hematologic malignancies. Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection has led to a worldwide pandemic of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) and pediatric patients with cancer appear to be at higher risk of severe disease than reported in the general pediatric population. Data are limited on the optimal management of children infected with SARS-CoV-2 and a new diagnosis of leukemia. The objective of this study was to describe our experience of six children who presented with a new diagnosis of acute leukemia and concurrent COVID-19.