Detection Of Covid- 19 With Ocular Signs, Symptoms, And Rapid Test Standard Q On The Conjunctiva And Tear Film

Primary Objective: To study the incidence of Covid-19 from conjunctival secretions and lacrimal ducts using a standard rapid antigen test compare with nasal swab RT-PCR. Secondary Objectives: Visual signs and symptoms in patients diagnosed with Covid-19 by RT-PCR.

Setting THABO CROWN PRINCE HOSPITAL , Nongkhai Thailand

Study design: Prospective cohort study

Method The method is from collecting data from a total of 414 patients at risk of contracting COVID- 19. A total of 414 patients with respiratory symptoms compatible with coronavirus disease (Covid-19) were diagnosed with SARS-CoV-2 by RT-PCR during the PCR group. Subjects were examined with a standard rapid antigen test using conjunctival secretions and examined with a handheld slit-lamp microscope by an ophthalmologist.

Result The sample group had symptoms of entry and was at risk of contracting COVID-19: 414 people, Nasal swab RT-PCR (gold standard, 212 people, accounting for 51.21% incidence (95%). CI:46.39-56.02) and the incidence of Covid in the lacrimal secretion 10 cases (2.42%), in the Nasal swab RT-PCR positive group, 7 cases, representing 3.30%. Therefore, no difference was found statistically significant when taken to find the sensitivity The sensitivity for the intraocular diagnostic test was 3.30% (95%Ci: 1.58%-5.02%). In this study, there was no contact between medical personnel and patients, as well as no patient deaths.

Conclusion: In a high-risk group respiratory symptoms associated with coronavirus (Covid- 19) infection can be found through tears. The diagnosis of COVID was found in the area Both nasal swabs are RT-PCR positive and negative, so intraocular ATK testing cannot be used as a diagnostic tool. But it helps to confirm that the germs can be contaminated in the tear area, so it should be prevented when medical personnel have to touch the conjunctiva and tears in the patient's eyes.