Mild disease course of SARS-CoV-2 infections and mild side effects of vaccination in Pompe disease: A cohort description

Orphanet J Rare Dis. 2022 Mar 4;17(1):102. doi: 10.1186/s13023-022-02268-y.

PMID: 35246221

G Ismailova, M J Mackenbach, J M P van den Hout

Highlights: In the light of this research, it is aimed to gather information about the course of SARS-CoV-2 infection and side effects of COVID-19 vaccinations in patients with Glycogen Storage Disease type II (GSDII).

Abstract

Introduction: Due to a compromised respiratory system and a propensity for obesity, individuals with Glycogen Storage Disease type II (GSDII), an inheritable metabolic myopathy also known as Pompe disease, are thought to be at risk for severe COVID-19. The progression of SARS-CoV-2 infection and the side effects of COVID-19 vaccination in patients with GSDII, however, are still poorly understood.

Methods: At Erasmus MC Rotterdam, 169 Dutch patients with Pompe are being monitored. Patients were encouraged to tell their doctors directly about their SARS-CoV-2 infection during the COVID-19 pandemic. Telephone interviews with infected patients were conducted on a regular basis until their symptoms decreased. Furthermore, a questionnaire was given to each patient who was old enough to be vaccinated on July 16, 2021 (≥ 17 years, n = 122).

Results: A SARS-CoV-2 infection has been detected in fifteen patients (8.9% of the cohort) thus far (classic infantile Pompe disease n = 5, late onset n = 10). No individuals were admitted to the hospital or required ventilatory assistance to be intensified. All patients recovered in less than 19 days. 98% of the patients who responded to our vaccination questionnaire (41.8% of patients) had received their shots. Only minor adverse effects, with the exception of one incidence of perimyocarditis, were documented.

Conclusion: Overall, SARS-CoV-2 infection in Pompe disease patients resulted in mild symptoms. All patients recovered completely. Following vaccination, side effects were often minor.

Keywords: COVID-19, COVID-19 vaccines, Glycogen storage disease type II, Pompe disease, SARS-CoV-2