Ophthalmic manifestations of COVID-19 and Bases for its ocular transmission
Keywords:
coronavirus, conjunctivitis, ocular transmission, SARS-CoV-2, COVID-19, TMPRSS2, ACE2 receptors.Abstract
Introduction: COVID-19 is an important global health problem which has been declared pandemic by the World Health Organization. Studies on felines and murines have described cases of conjunctivitis, anterior uveitis, retinitis and optic neuritis. The most common condition in humans is acute viral conjunctivitis; however, its study is still in progress. Research is conducted about coronavirus infection acquired by ocular transmission, the mechanism of which has not been totally clarified.
Objectives: Describe the main ophthalmic manifestations, as well as the role played by ocular surface dynamics and the presence of molecular receptors in SARS-CoV-2 transmission by this route.
Methods: A literature review was conducted of papers published in Spanish or English in the repositories PubMed, Ebsco, Scielo and Google Scholar from 1 January to 31 July 2020. Websites of ophthalmological agencies and associations were also consulted.
Conclusions: Viral conjunctivitis is the main ophthalmic presentation of coronavirus 2019. Although the risk of contagion through tears is low, the transmission mechanism by this route has not been described. Even in the absence of conjunctivitis, SARS-CoV-2 may exist or replicate in the conjunctiva. Ocular protection is therefore advisable.
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