Management of Glioblastoma Multiforme During the Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 Pandemic: A Review of the Literature

Background: Patients with glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) and other patients with cancer are at a greater risk of developing severe complications as a result of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) infection. Therefore, it is crucial to adjust therapeutic approaches to reduce exposure and complications and achieve the most appropriate treatment outcomes.

Objective: Our goal was to help physicians to make decisions based on the latest data in the literature.

Method: We provide a comprehensive review of the literature on the current issues of GBM and COVID-19 infection.

Results: The mortality of patients with diffuse glioma as a result of COVID-19 infection was 39%, which is higher than in the general population. The statistics showed that 84.5% of patients with diagnosed brain cancer (mostly GBM) and 89.9% of their caregivers received COVID-19 vaccines. The decision to apply different therapeutic approaches must be made individually based on age, tumor grade, molecular profile, and performance status. The advantages and disadvantages of adjuvant radiotherapy and chemotherapy after the surgery should be evaluated carefully. In the setting of the follow-up period, special considerations must be considered to minimize COVID-19 exposure.

Conclusions: The pandemic altered medical approaches worldwide, and the management of patients in an immunocompromised state, such as patients with GBM, is challenging; therefore, special considerations must be considered.