DR.KAMRUL KHAN

DR BILLAL HOSSAIN, DR BILLAL HOSSAIN

Abstract

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE:

Our aim of this study to confirm extension of presence of COVID 19 RNA in conjunctival swab and persistence of it up to a certain limit.

PATIENTS AND METHODS:

A total of 20 eyes of 20 patients randomly were selected. Conjunctival swab was collected by trained medical assistant with full personal protective equipment support under guidance of consultant. The presence of SARS-CoV-2 RNA was tested by real-time RT- PCR assay in a clinical diagnostic laboratory with the kits and protocols recommended by Institutional Review Board.

RESULTS:

The distribution of patient according to the age were 20-50 years (85.00%), >50 years (15.00%). Only 3 patients had few symptoms as redness and swelling of eye lids. There was no positive finding in rt PCR in any of the sample collected from conjunctival swab in both times.

CONCLUSION: Shedding of COVID 19 virus was not found in tear or conjunctival secretion.