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New Delhi: A team of Indian-origin researchers has shed light on an emerging association between Covid-19 infection and a range of ocular symptoms, including dryness, redness, and itchy eyes. While Covid-19 has traditionally been understood as a respiratory illness, the ocular system appears to be increasingly susceptible to the SARS-CoV-2 virus, with diverse symptoms observed worldwide, according to findings by the team from Kiran C. Patel College of Osteopathic Medicine at Nova Southeastern University.
Published in the Cureus: Journal of Medical Science, their study underscores conjunctivitis as the most prevalent ocular symptom among Covid-19 patients, with approximately one in ten individuals experiencing associated eye issues. However, the team also identified more severe complications such as episcleritis, ophthalmoparesis, and Central Retinal Artery Occlusion (CRAO) in some cases.
Additionally, Covid-19 patients may present with cranial nerve palsies, leading to delayed eye movement and potential vision loss, the researchers revealed.
“Swift isolation and treatment initiation are crucial in containing the spread of this novel coronavirus,” emphasized corresponding author Deepesh Khanna from the varsity’s Department of Foundational Sciences.
Drawing from a comprehensive review of 233 research papers spanning from 2020 to 2024, the study highlighted that ocular symptoms could manifest as early indicators of Covid-19 infection. This phenomenon is attributed to the presence of ACE2 receptors in the eyes, serving as a gateway for the SARS-CoV-2 virus to infiltrate cells and incite Covid-19.
“As the incidence of Covid-19 cases with ocular involvement continues to rise, further investigation into the specific pathophysiology of ocular manifestations is imperative. Physicians must be equipped with the knowledge to effectively manage these symptoms in patients presenting with ophthalmic manifestations of Covid-19,” the researchers emphasized in their paper.
While no definitive cure for Covid-19 exists, the study suggested that Pfizer’s Paxlovid (nirmatrelvir/ritonavir) medication may hold promise in treating Covid-19-positive patients with ocular symptoms. Approved by the US FDA in December 2021 for individuals with mild to moderate Covid-19 at risk of severe outcomes, Paxlovid works by inhibiting viral replication and reducing viral load in the body.
The findings of this study not only deepen our understanding of the varied manifestations of Covid-19 but also underscore the importance of vigilance and prompt intervention in managing ocular symptoms associated with the disease. As the global healthcare community continues to grapple with the Covid-19 pandemic, ongoing research into its ocular implications offers hope for more effective management and treatment strategies.
