[What is the importance of the conjunctiva as a potential transmission pathway for SARS-CoV-2 infections?] / Welche Bedeutung hat die Bindehaut als möglicher Übertragungsweg für eine SARS-CoV-2-Infektion?
Ophthalmologe
; 117(7): 626-630, 2020 Jul.
Article
in German
| MEDLINE | ID: covidwho-612376
ABSTRACT
Recent studies have described conjunctivitis in approximately 1% of COVID-19 patients and speculated that SARS-CoV2 can be transmitted via the conjunctiva. In this article we recapitulate the molecular mechanisms of host cell entry of SARS-CoV2 and discuss the current evidence for a potential conjunctival transmission of SARS-CoV2. The current body of evidence indicates that SARS-CoV2 requires the membrane-bound angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) and the membrane-bound serine protease TMPRSS2 to enter cells. Recent studies suggest that COVID-19 patients rarely exhibit viral RNA in tear film and conjunctival smears and that, ACE2 and TMPRSS2 are only expressed in very small amounts in the conjunctiva, making conjunctival infection with SARS-CoV2 via these mediators unlikely. Nevertheless, we consider the current evidence to be still too limited to provide a conclusive statement and recommend appropriate protective measures for healthcare personnel who are in close contact with suspected and confirmed COVID-19 patients.
Keywords
Full text:
Available
Collection:
International databases
Database:
MEDLINE
Main subject:
Pneumonia, Viral
/
Coronavirus Infections
/
Conjunctiva
/
Pandemics
/
Betacoronavirus
Limits:
Humans
Language:
German
Journal:
Ophthalmologe
Journal subject:
Ophthalmology
Year:
2020
Document Type:
Article
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