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Extraordinary Complication of COVID-19 Swab Testing: CSF Rhinorrhea
Uzdan Uz1, Kivanç Günhan1, Yüksel Pabuşcu2
1Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Manisa Celal Bayar University.
A rare but serious complication of nasopharyngeal swabs for Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) diagnosis is cerebrospinal fluid leak. Healthcare providers should exercise caution during COVID-19 testing to prevent potential patient harm.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Infectious Diseases
- Otolaryngology
Background:
- Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a global pandemic requiring widespread diagnostic testing.
- Nasopharyngeal swabs are the standard method for diagnosing COVID-19 using polymerase chain reaction (PCR).
- While generally safe, invasive procedures carry inherent risks of complications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report a rare complication following nasopharyngeal swabbing for COVID-19 diagnosis.
- To highlight the potential for serious adverse events, such as cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) rhinorrhea.
- To emphasize the need for careful technique during COVID-19 testing.
Main Methods:
- Case report of a patient presenting with symptoms after a nasopharyngeal swab.
- Clinical evaluation and diagnostic procedures for suspected CSF rhinorrhea.
- Review of existing literature on complications associated with nasopharyngeal sampling.
Main Results:
- The patient developed unilateral cerebrospinal fluid rhinorrhea post-nasopharyngeal swabbing.
- This complication, though infrequent, can be life-threatening.
- The diagnostic utility of PCR testing for COVID-19 necessitates continued vigilance for procedural risks.
Conclusions:
- Cerebrospinal fluid rhinorrhea is a rare but significant complication of nasopharyngeal swabbing.
- Healthcare professionals must be aware of this risk and employ meticulous techniques during COVID-19 testing.
- Prompt recognition and management are crucial for patients experiencing post-procedural complications.
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