Sicca syndrome as complication of COVID‐19 infection: A case report

Abstract

Key Clinical Message Several reports of suspected oral and ocular manifestations of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) has prompted investigations into ocular signs, symptoms, and transmission (5).11.2% of patients with COV19 infection had ocular symptoms, including ocular pain, conjunctivitis, dry eye, and floaters, meanwhile, many studies had documented oral symptoms such as dry mouth and dysgeusia in these patients. Our case reported a 39‐year‐old male, presented with symptoms of dry mouth and dry eye lasting more than 3 months. The patient had recovered from (PCR‐confirmed) COVID‐19 which lasted 10 days, 4 months ago. The physical examination was normal. Ocular findings include conjunctival hyperemia and superficial punctate keratitis. The anti‐nuclear antibody (ANA) was weekly positive at 1/80. Schirmer test considered positive. He continued on 200 mg/day of hydroxychloroquine, along with tear drops until now with remission. Sicca symptoms may be a sequel of COVID‐19 infection, and physicians should be aware of this sequel. The sequela of this infection is not understood, with limited data in the literature. Future prospective cohort studies are needed to reveal the impact of these features on oral health.

Keywords

• COVID‐19 infection
• dry eye
• dry mouth
• sequela
• sicca syndrome