Systemic Markers in Ophthalmic Manifestations of Post Corona Virus Disease-19 (COVID-19).

ABSTRACT

INTRODUCTION: Corona virus disease (COVID-19) has been associated with ophthalmic manifestations which can occur during or following the infection. PURPOSE: To explore the systemic status in ophthalmic patients who had a recent history of COVID-19 or those with positive COVID-19 antibody status. METHODS: Retrospective case series. RESULTS: 30 patients with history of COVID-19 infection and positive COVID-19 antibodies were included in the study. The median age was 49 years (mean 48.7 ± 13.7 years), 20 were males (66.7%) and 10 (33.3%) were females. Patients with VA>/= 6/60 were included in group 1 and those with VA<6/60 were included in group 2. D-dimer/serum Ferritin levels were raised in group 2 compared to group 1with (p=0.013)/(p=0.018) respectively. CONCLUSION: Serum D-dimer and ferritin levels were statistically significant and were higher in patients with sight threatening ocular manifestations. ESR and CRP were raised even after recovery from COVID-19 although they were not statistically significant.