Covid-19 infection in cancer patients: the management in a diagnostic unit

Radiol Oncol. 2021 Mar 5;55(2):121-129. doi: 10.2478/raon-2021-0010.

Abstract

Background: COVID-19 infection is particularly aggressive in frail patients, as cancer patients. Therefore, the more suitable management of the oncological patient requires a multidisciplinary assessment, to identify which patients should be treated, as inpatients or outpatients, and which treatments can be procrastinated.

Conclusions: The role of radiologist is crucial, and, all cancer patients who need an imaging evaluation will need to be studied, using the most appropriate imaging tools related to the clinical question and paying a special attention to preserve public health. Guidelines are necessary in the correct organization of a radiology unit to manage patients with suspected or confirmed COVID-19 infection, and whenever possible, a satellite radiography center with dedicated equipment should be used to decrease the transmission risk.

Keywords: COVID-19 infection; cancer patients; diagnostic unit; guideline; management.

Publication types

  • Practice Guideline

MeSH terms

  • COVID-19 / complications*
  • COVID-19 / diagnosis*
  • COVID-19 / therapy
  • COVID-19 / transmission
  • COVID-19 Testing
  • Clinical Protocols*
  • Cross Infection / prevention & control
  • Humans
  • Incidental Findings
  • Neoplasms / complications*
  • Neoplasms / diagnosis*
  • Neoplasms / therapy
  • Patient Care Team / organization & administration
  • Patient Isolation
  • Personal Protective Equipment
  • Radiology Department, Hospital / organization & administration*
  • SARS-CoV-2
  • Triage