The impact of COVID-19 on breast cancer recurrence: A brief review

COVID-19 has affected several aspects of healthcare systems worldwide. While our understanding of the impact of cancer and its treatment on COVID-19 mortality is improving, there is still little known regarding the possible mechanisms by which COVID-19 might interfere with cancer cells, especially breast cancer.  Several factors activated during COVID-19 have been implicated in tumorigenesis and the development of metastasis. Inflammation, hypoxia, reduced levels of angiotensin converting enzyme 2, elevated levels of Interleukin 6 and some other cytokines that are hallmarks of COVID-19 are capable of inducing tumor relapse and metastasis. Understanding the interaction between COVID-19 and breast cancer tumor cells is essential for evaluating the potential long-term risks of COVID-19 in the patients, and for scheduling necessary preventive, screening and therapeutic interventions.