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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.

The Journal of Craniofacial Surgery
|March 21, 2023
PubMed

Insights

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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