Immunogenicity and safety of COVID-19 vaccines in patients with pancreatic cancer.

BACKGROUND

Patients with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) are at increased risk for severe COVID-19. Although COVID-19 vaccines are highly recommended for this population, studies on immunogenicity are lacking. We aimed to investigate the immunogenicity of COVID-19 vaccines in PDAC patients, compared to controls.

METHODS

This observational study evaluated SARS-CoV-2 spike-specific IgG (S-IgG) levels after priming and booster vaccination in PDAC patients. Primary outcomes were seroprevalence and S-IgG levels compared to matched controls. Secondary outcomes included safety and the association of S-IgG levels with clinical and therapeutic characteristics.

RESULTS

In 81 PDAC patients, a total of 86 matched S-IgG levels were available (33 post-priming; 53 post-booster). After priming, 88% (29/33) of PDAC patients were seropositive compared to 97% (32/33) of controls (P=0.16). After booster, seropositivity increased to 98% (52/53) in PDAC patients and to 53/53 (100%) in controls (P=0.31). Patients with active disease during booster vaccination had significantly lower S-IgG levels compared to patients with a history of PDAC (P=0.002). Cancer therapies were not associated with distinct S-IgG levels (P>0.05). No serious adverse events occurred.

CONCLUSION

Priming and booster COVID-19 vaccines are safe and immunogenic in PDAC patients, comparable to controls. The antibody response was effectively increased by the booster vaccination and not impaired by cancer therapies.