Open AccessOtolaryngology Symptoms and Signs in COVID-19 Patients: A Descriptive Study in Oman
Author(s) -
Salma Mohammed Al Sheibani
Publication year - 2020
Language(s) - English
DOI - 10.33169/ent.enatoaoj-i-103
Subject(s) - otorhinolaryngology , medicine , sore throat , rhinorrhea , disease , signs and symptoms , covid-19 , pediatrics , quarantine , infectious disease (medical specialty) , surgery , pathology
Objectives To conduct a demographic analysis of COVID-19 cases highlighting on the otolaryngology presenting symptoms and signs that developed throughout the course of the disease. The symptoms related to otolaryngology may present early in the natural course of the disease. The literature on otolaryngology manifestations in these patients is scanty even though they can play an important role in suspecting and investigating positive cases early in the course of disease. This can improve not only the outcome of treatment of these cases but also minimize the spread from these cases if remain unsuspected. The final goal is to add these symptoms to the check list which must be completed by the first contact physician. Methods The physicians who were directly involved in dealing with confirmed cases of COVID-19 were the participants. An online form was generated and circulated to these physicians. The information gathered was about all presenting symptoms including those related to otolaryngology. Patients belonging to both ‘on treatment’ and ‘quarantine’ groups were studied. The patients’ data was analyzed after dividing them into various groups. Results A total of 322 patients aged 5 months to 81years were studied. Fever (71.7%) and cough (70.18%) were the top two commonest symptoms. Sore throat was noted in 15.8%. Headache and rhinorrhea were found in 10.24% and 6.83% cases respectively. There were 4.04% cases who presented with loss of taste and smell. Out of the total 322 patients 70.8% required admission while the others were recommended home quarantine. Ten percent patients required intubation as they were not able to maintain saturation by all other means. Conclusions The otolaryngology manifestation in our study is under reported in the absence of a check list and lack of awareness in the beginning of the pandemic. The literature is scanty on this issue as the knowledge about this new virus and its behavior is still building. Creating a check list including otolaryngology manifestations and made available in all institutions receiving these patients is essential.