Ocular Involvement in COVID-19: Conjunctivitis and More.

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Infectious Diseases
• Virology

Background:

• The COVID-19 pandemic, caused by SARS-CoV-2, presents significant challenges in ophthalmology.
• Ophthalmologists face risks of infection through patient contact and exposure to contaminated aerosols or liquids.
• Ocular symptoms can be early indicators of systemic COVID-19 infection.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the ocular manifestations associated with COVID-19.
• To discuss potential transmission routes and necessary precautions for ophthalmologists.
• To highlight the importance of understanding COVID-19's impact on eye health.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of COVID-19 associated ocular conditions.
• Analysis of reported ocular symptoms and complications.
• Discussion of transmission pathways and protective measures.

Main Results:

• The most frequent ocular complication is mild follicular conjunctivitis.
• Less common manifestations include hemorrhagic conjunctivitis, dry eye, episcleritis, and retinal issues.
• Rare but severe complications involve retinal vascular events and neuro-ophthalmological conditions like Miller-Fisher syndrome.

Conclusions:

• Ocular symptoms can be the initial sign of COVID-19, necessitating vigilance.
• While direct ocular infection is unproven, the ocular surface can be exposed to SARS-CoV-2.
• Ophthalmologists require knowledge of ocular symptoms and protective measures to manage COVID-19 patients safely.