Related Experiment Video
Updated: Dec 21, 2025
06:29
Comparing Objective Conjunctival Hyperemia Grading and the Ocular Surface Disease Index Score in Dry Eye Syndrome During COVID-19
Published on: May 25, 2022
2.7K
The ocular surface, coronaviruses and COVID-19.
Mark Dp Willcox1, Karen Walsh2, Jason J Nichols3
1School of Optometry and Vision Science, The University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.
Clinical & Experimental Optometry
|May 15, 2020
Summary
The ocular surface is unlikely to be a primary infection site for SARS-CoV-2, the virus causing COVID-19. While some evidence exists, conjunctivitis and viral isolation from the eye are rare in COVID-19 patients.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Virology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- The ocular surface's potential role in SARS-CoV-2 infection is debated.
- SARS-CoV-2 uses ACE2 receptors for cellular entry.
- COVID-19 transmission occurs via respiratory droplets and contaminated surfaces.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review existing evidence on SARS-CoV-2 infection of the ocular surface.
- To assess the implications for clinical practice and patient hygiene.
Main Methods:
- A literature search was conducted on the Scopus database.
- 287 results were reviewed for evidence of ocular surface involvement.
Main Results:
- Preliminary evidence suggests ACE2 expression on corneal and conjunctival cells.
- Most viral receptors are located beneath ocular surface epithelia.
- Animal studies show limited evidence of ocular-to-lung viral spread.
- Conjunctivitis and viral isolation from ocular samples are rare in COVID-19 patients.
Conclusions:
- The ocular surface is unlikely to be a significant route for SARS-CoV-2 infection.
- Hypotheses of viral spread from nasopharynx to the eye are likely incorrect.
- Standard infection control and hygiene practices remain crucial during the pandemic.
More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
01:17Accessory Structures of the Eye
3.2K
Optical perception, or vision, is an extraordinary sense dependent on converting light signals received via the ocular organs. These organs, known as eyes, are securely positioned within the bony cavities of the skull, called orbits. The orbits serve a dual purpose: a protective shield for the ocular globes and a stable attachment point for the soft ocular tissues. The eye's external protective mechanisms include the eyelids, which are edged with lashes that act as a barrier against foreign...
3.2K
01:25Glaucoma: Overview
1.1K
Glaucoma is an eye condition characterized by increased intraocular pressure that damages the retina and optic nerve, leading to irreversible blindness if left untreated. The human eye has various components, including the cornea, iris, pupil, lens, and optic nerve. Aqueous humor is secreted by the epithelium of the ciliary body in the posterior chamber and flows through the trabecular meshwork and canal of Schlemm, maintaining normal intraocular pressure. The trabecular meshwork and the canal...
1.1K
01:28Angle Closure Glaucoma: Treatment
1.0K
Angle-closure glaucoma, or closed-angle glaucoma, is an eye condition where the iris bulges out and blocks the iridocorneal angle, resulting in a buildup of aqueous humor and increased intraocular pressure. Immediate medical attention is necessary due to the sudden onset of symptoms. The treatment for angle-closure glaucoma includes short-term and long-term approaches. Short-term treatment involves using eye drops like pilocarpine to lower intraocular pressure by increasing aqueous humor...
1.0K