DR. JAYA KAUSHIK

DR. ANKITA SINGH, DR. (MAJ.GEN.) J.K.S. PARIHAR, DR. CHAITANYA YV KRISHNA

Abstract

Purpose: The aim of the study was to detect the presence of viral RNA of severe acute SARS-CoV-2 in conjunctival swab specimens of COVID-19 cases. Methods: 30 COVID-19 patients with at least one sample + for real-time reverse RT PCR for SARS-CoV-2 in nasopharyngeal swab with the presence or absence of ocular manifestations. The conjunctival swab along with nasopharyngeal swab of each patient was collected & sent to microbiology lab for evaluation and analysis of viral RNA to assess the viral load. Results: One pt had conjunctivitis as ocular manifestation. 2 pts were + for RT-PCR SARS-CoV-2 in the conj swab. Conclusion: The results revealed that SARS-CoV-2 can also be detected in conjunctival swabs of confirmed COVID-19 patients. Although, in comparison to nasopharyngeal and throat swabs the rate of detection of SARS-CoV-2 in conjunctival swabs is relatively less, still diligent care and precautions should be practiced during the ophthalmic evaluation of COVID-19 patients.