Analysis of the current Covid-19 infection and vaccination status in patients with neurofibromatosis type 1

Abstract

Background

To investigate the common symptoms after Covid-19 infection, characteristics of adverse events after vaccination, changes in clinical manifestations related to Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1), as well as the current vaccination status and factors related to vaccine hesitation among NF1 patients, in order to provide a basis for scientific protection and vaccine acceptance in NF1 individuals in the new phase of pandemic management.

Methods

From December 29, 2022, to January 10, 2023, we conducted a self-assessment questionnaire survey among diagnosed NF1 patients. General data were provided including sex, age, main clinical presentations, and current treatment. This study mainly focused on the infection and vaccination status of Covid-19 among these patients with NF1. The data were statistically analyzed using SPSS26.0 software.

Results

Of the 250 questionnaires distributed, 226 were valid. Among the 164 patients (72.6%) with Covid-19 infection, the most common infection symptoms and incidence of patients were not significantly different from those in the normal population (P>0.05), but the incidence of symptoms such as nasal congestion, headache, myalgia, sore throat, abdominal pain, diarrhea, and eye discomfort was higher than that in the normal population (P<0.05), and no severe infection was observed; 186 patients (82.3%) had completed the Covid-19 vaccination, and more than half of those who were not vaccinated had no plans for vaccination. Among the vaccinated patients, there was no significant difference in the incidence of adverse events, such as fever, pain, redness, and swelling at the injection site after vaccination, compared to the normal population (P>0.05), but the incidence of fatigue and headache was higher in NF1 patients (P<0.001). Most patients with NF1 believe that there is no significant progressive change in NF1-related clinical manifestations after Covid-19 infection and vaccination.

Conclusion

Currently, some NF1 patients appear to be worried about the evolution of their disease after Covid-19 infection in the face of large fluctuations in the pandemic situation, and some patients hesitate to receive the vaccine due to their special disease condition. Thus, clinical trials should be conducted to develop a refined pandemic response and vaccination program for this special group.