Oral cavity manifestations in coronavirus disease 2019 patients: A COVID hospital-based study

Abstract

Background: Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is an acute respiratory disease caused by novel severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2. COVID-19 infection presents with mild flu-like symptoms to severe respiratory illness, even respiratory failure. Oral cavity lesions are currently documented in the COVID-19 infections, which increases the morbidity of the patients. Objective: The aim of this study is to evaluate the different types of the oral cavity lesions in COVID-19 patient, including its symptoms and signs. Materials and Methods: This is a prospective observational study. COVID-19 patients were evaluated for oral cavity manifestations. The age ranges from 18 years to 65 years. All these patients underwent detailed examinations of the oral cavity and oropharynx with the help of headlight, along with wearing personal protective equipment. Results: Fifty-six COVID-19 patients showed oral cavity manifestations during their treatment period. The most common clinical entity in this study was gustatory disturbance (26.78%), followed by oral mucositis (14.28%), glossitis (12.50%), and ulcers (8.92%) in the oral cavity of the COVID-19 patients. Conclusion: COVID-19 infection significantly affects the oral cavity and salivary glands. Clinicians should keep in mind different lesions in the oral cavity and taste disturbances of COVID-19 patients, which will help the early diagnosis, treatment and avoid the morbidity of the patient.