![]() We have also tried to categorize the manifestations into the phase of the coronavirus disease-19 (COVID-19) when they are most likely to present. This article gives an overview of the ophthalmic conditions that have been associated with the virus, directly or indirectly. We believe it is important for ophthalmologists to have knowledge about the ophthalmic manifestations of the novel viral infection in order to suspect, diagnose, refer and treat the conditions with skills, machinery, and drugs that we already possess. ![]() To bring down the numbers to more conquerable values, 'ophthalmic manifestations' has just over 100 publications. If we refine it with the addition of the word 'Ophthalmology', the results are less staggering but none the less large with over 1000 publications. A simple search of 'COVID-19' in search engines throws up about a lakh of articles. The permanent sequelae to different organs, the multitude of presentations, the theories of pathogenesis, and the true associations with the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) are being reported and studied at a rate that may only be described as a scientifically demanded frenzy. The full spectrum of the disease is yet to be unraveled. The coronavirus global pandemic has had far-reaching and lasting consequences. Ophthalmologists should be aware of the possible associations of ocular diseases with SARS-CoV-2 in order to ask relevant history, look for specific signs, advise appropriate tests and thereby mitigate the spread of infection as well as diagnose and initiate early treatment for life and vision threatening complications. Ophthalmic manifestations may be the presenting feature of COVID-19 infection or they may develop several weeks after recovery. The viral ribonucleic acid (RNA) has been isolated from ocular tissues but the role of eye as a route for infection is yet to be substantiated. Direct effect due to virus, immune mediated tissue damage, activation of the coagulation cascade and prothrombotic state induced by the viral infection, the associated comorbidities and drugs used in the management are responsible for the findings in the eye. Conjunctivitis is the most common manifestation and can develop at any stage of the disease. 46 case reports, 8 case series, 11 cross sectional/cohort observational studies, 5 prospective interventional studies, 3 animal models/autopsy studies and 6 reviews/meta-analysis were included. Literature search was performed for the publications on ophthalmic manifestations of coronavirus disease-19 (COVID-19) between Januand January 31, 2021. This review was undertaken to help ophthalmologists recognize the possible manifestations and the stage of the viral disease when they commonly appear. Ophthalmologists world over are reporting various manifestations of the infection in the eye. It can affect almost every organ of the body. The infection can range from asymptomatic, mild to life threatening respiratory distress. “They don’t always present ‘according to the book,’ so you must cast a wide net when thinking about who may or may not have COVID-19,” he said.The pandemic caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has had health implications of unprecedented magnitude. “The onset of nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea after onset of respiratory symptoms such as fever and cough may also suggest that a person may have COVID-19.”Īccording to Glatter, the bottom line is that healthcare professionals need to be vigilant and keep an open mind when evaluating patients who may have symptoms associated with the disease. ![]() “I have also seen patients present only with chest pain, devoid of any respiratory symptoms,” he said. Glatter said that other patients have also “presented with malaise, headache, and dizziness,” that in some ways resemble the symptoms of stroke, but without fever, cough, or any evidence of upper respiratory symptoms. A livedo-type of skin reaction in response to acute inflammation, in the absence of fever, cough or other respiratory symptoms.” “I have also seen patients present with ‘COVID-toes,’ or chilblains. “In fact, some patients may present only with loss of taste or smell and otherwise feel well,” Glatter said. “In general, while fever is usually the most commonly described initial symptom of COVID-19 infection, the reality of what I see on the front lines is more variable,” he said. Glatter shared his experience treating patients with COVID-19 in New York City. ![]()
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