An Evidence-Based Guide to SARS-CoV-2 Vaccination of Patients on Immunotherapies in Dermatology

Gresham, Louise M.; Marzario, Barbara; Dutz, Jan; Kirchhof, Mark G.

Immune-mediated diseases and immunotherapeutics can negatively impact normal immune functioning and consequently vaccine safety and response. The COVID-19 pandemic has incited research aimed at developing a novel 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 vaccination of an immunocompromised host remain appropriate when considering future administration of SARS-CoV-2 vaccine.