Potential use of convalescent plasma for SARS-CoV-2 prophylaxis and treatment in immunocompromised and vulnerable populations

Expert Rev Vaccines. 2022 Jul;21(7):877-884. doi: 10.1080/14760584.2021.1932475. Epub 2021 May 27.

Abstract

Introduction: : The ongoing SARS-CoV-2 pandemic is a serious threat for the health of immunocompromised patients. Among neutralizing antibody-based therapeutics, convalescent plasma containing polyclonal anti-SARS-CoV-2 immunoglobulins has promising results in both congenital and iatrogenic immunodeficiencies in oncohematological and transplant patients.

Areas covered: : This article discusses case reports, case series and controlled studies detailing the efficacy of convalescent plasma in immunocompromised patients.

Expert opinion: : Convalescent plasma, when administered at high neutralizing antibody titers, is a safe and effective treatment for frail immunocompromised patients. Genetic monitoring of refractory patients is recommended to intercept intra-host emergence of SARS-CoV-2 variants.

Keywords: Convalescent plasma; covid-19; hyperimmune serum; neutralizing antibodies; polyclonal immunoglobulins; sars-cov-2.

MeSH terms

  • Antibodies, Neutralizing
  • Antibodies, Viral
  • COVID-19 Serotherapy
  • COVID-19* / prevention & control
  • COVID-19* / therapy
  • Humans
  • Immunization, Passive / methods
  • Immunocompromised Host
  • SARS-CoV-2*
  • Vulnerable Populations

Substances

  • Antibodies, Neutralizing
  • Antibodies, Viral

Supplementary concepts

  • SARS-CoV-2 variants

Grants and funding

This paper was not funded.