Recommendations of the Colombian association of coloproctology for management of colorectal cancer during the COVID-19 pandemic

Abstract

The economic and social repercussions and the enormous commitment required of health care systems by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) pandemic (coronavirus disease [COVID-19]) has completely altered world reality. The disease has affected all countries on all five continents. In Colombia, from diagnosis of the very first case, measures have been taken to better prepare ourselves for this crisis. Although it is a respiratory virus, its presence in various human tissues and organs has been documented. Despite the fact that its clinical presentation is most often in the form of mild symptoms, a significant percentage of those infected have severe manifestations that can lead to serious complications and death. Colorectal cancer is a prevalent tumor in our population, and this pandemic forces to prepare ourselves better to treat it during this period. The Colombian Coloproctology Association has reviewed reports in the literature and recommendations of various international associations and on our own experience with colorectal cancer during the COVID-19 pandemic. We present our recommendations for management of patients with this pathology and review management options according to disease presentation.