# Administration of Onasemnogene Abeparvovec in an Infant With Spinal Muscular Atrophy and PCR-Confirmed SARS-CoV-2 Infection

## TL;DR

A baby with spinal muscular atrophy received a critical treatment despite being exposed to and testing positive for SARS-CoV-2, remaining asymptomatic and without complications.

## Contribution

This case study provides the first reported evidence on the safety of administering OA to an asymptomatic SARS-CoV-2-positive infant.

## Key findings

- OA was safely administered 19 days after the mother's COVID-19 diagnosis without significant adverse effects.
- The infant remained asymptomatic with no increase in viral load following OA administration.
- The case supports the potential for timely SMA treatment in asymptomatic SARS-CoV-2-positive patients.

## Abstract

Onasemnogene abeparvovec (OA) is used to treat spinal muscular atrophy (SMA), and early treatment is critical. However, OA administration may trigger an immune response. To date, no studies have established the optimal timing for OA administration following SARS-CoV-2 infection. We report the case of an eight-month-old female infant presenting with delayed motor development who was diagnosed with SMA. OA therapy was initially prescribed but postponed because of a risk of COVID-19 exposure; the patient’s mother had recently developed COVID-19. Despite testing positive for SARS-CoV-2, the infant remained asymptomatic, and her viral load did not increase. OA was administered 19 days after the mother’s COVID-19 diagnosis. The patient did not develop COVID-19 and experienced no significant adverse effects. This case suggests that OA administration may be safe in asymptomatic SARS-CoV-2-positive patients with low viral loads, allowing timely therapy to preserve motor function. Further studies are needed to establish evidence-based guidelines for the optimal timing of OA administration.