| The recent outbreak of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) or
coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) in China, which spread to the rest of the world, led
the World Health Organization to classify it as a global pandemic. COVID-19 belongs to
the Bettacoronavirus genus of the Coronaviridae family, and it mainly spreads through the
respiratory tract. Studies have now confirmed a human-to-human transmission as the
primary pathway of spread. COVID-19 patients with a history of diseases such as
respiratory system diseases, immune deficiency, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and
cancer are prone to adverse events (admission to the intensive care unit requiring invasive
ventilation or even death). The current focus has been on the development of novel
therapeutics, including antivirals, monoclonal antibodies, and vaccines. However,
although there is undoubtedly an urgent need to identify effective treatment options
against infection with COVID-19, it is equally important to clarify management protocols
for the other significant diseases from which these patients may suffer, including cancer.
This review summarizes the current evidence regarding the epidemiology, pathogenesis,
and management of patients with COVID-19. It also aims to provide the reader with
insights into COVID-19 in pregnant patients and those with cancer, outlining necessary
precautions relevant to cancer patients. Finally, we provide the available evidence on the
latest potent antiviral drugs and vaccines of COVID-19 and the ongoing drug trials. |