[TREATMENT OF ONCOLOGY PATIENTS DURING THE CORONA VIRUS ERA].

BACKGROUND: Cancer patients are more at risk to contract SARS-CoV-2 and may develop many more severe complications, along with high mortality rates relative to the cancer-free population. The outbreak of the epidemic was characterized by a high rate of infection from person to person, however medical systems remained fully functional. Following most international guidelines, adaptations were made to the performance level of oncology treatments, and the service was to continue as usual. Moreover, the corona virus epidemic era was characterized by new challenges such as emergency work schedules, additional hygiene measures and social distancing. Furthermore, the medical staff used Personal Protection Equipment and resource preparedness for a larger outbreak and probable collapse of the health system. Therefore, changes have been made in the form and delivery of patient care and treatments. This article presents the work format employed in the Oncology Unit at Bnai Zion Medical Center during the COVID-19 epidemic. The newly adjusted protocol included four areas: staff, patients, infrastructure and malignant disease types.

[MANAGING LUNG CANCER PATIENTS' CARE DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC].

BACKGROUND: Lung cancer patients who contract the new coronavirus, appear to have a greater risk for severe COVID-19 illness along with early deterioration and death. However, the prognosis may depend on the cancer stage and the type of treatment administered. OBJECTIVES: Establishing updated treatments and care management regulations for lung cancer patients during the COVID-19 pandemic, based on worldwide clinical experience. METHODS: This article reviews the main recommendations described by the American and European Oncology Societies managing lung cancer patients infected by COVID-19. RESULTS: In the current pandemic setting, attempts should be made to avoid jeopardizing the prognosis of lung cancer patients, by maintaining current guidelines in oncology practice. In cases of patients with active infection, the recommendation is to hold treatment until recovery. For other patients, due to the aggressive nature of lung cancer, the guidelines suggest not to delay curative treatments in non-metastatic disease and provide palliative treatment in shortened protocols. CONCLUSIONS: The present summary of guideline recommendations provides different management strategies for patients with lung cancer. These care approaches attempt to solve new challenges raised by the COVID-19 pandemic. Each specific case must be considered individually.