Subsequent Vaccination against SARS-CoV-2 after Vaccine-Induced Immune Thrombotic Thrombocytopenia

Abstract

Background: Vaccine-induced immune thrombotic thrombocytopenia (VITT) is a rare but severe complication following vaccination with adenovirus vector-based COVID-19 vaccines. Antibodies directed against platelet factor 4 (PF4) are thought to be responsible for platelet activation and subsequent thromboembolic events in these patients. Since a single vaccination does not lead to sufficient immunization, subsequent vaccinations against COVID-19 have been recommended. However, concerns exist regarding the possible development of a new thromboembolic episode after subsequent vaccinations in VITT patients. Methods: We prospectively analyzed follow-up data from four VITT patients (three women and one man; median age, 44 years [range, 22 to 62 years]) who subsequently received additional COVID-19 vaccines. Platelet counts, anti-PF4/heparin antibody level measurements, and a functional platelet activation assay were performed at each follow-up visit. Additionally, we conducted a literature review and summarized similar reports on the outcome of subsequent vaccinations in patients with VITT. Results: The patients had developed thrombocytopenia and thrombosis 4 to 17 days after the first vaccination with ChAdOx1 nCoV-19. The optical densities (ODs) of anti-PF4/heparin antibodies decreased with time, and three out of four patients tested negative within 4 months. One patient remained positive even after 10 months post first vaccination. All four patients received an mRNA-based vaccine as a second vaccination against SARS-CoV-2. No significant drop in platelet count or new thromboembolic complications were observed during follow-up. We identified seven publications reporting subsequent COVID-19 vaccination in VITT patients. None of the patients developed thrombocytopenia or thrombosis after the subsequent vaccination. Conclusion: Subsequent vaccination with an mRNA vaccine appears to be safe in VITT patients.