Oral Manifestations in COVID-19-positive Patients: A Clinical Case Series

Abstract

Abstract The development of oral lesions in COVID-19 patients can be attributed to a variety of factors. High viral load in saliva, the virus directly targeting the mucosa, association with dermal manifestations, use of corticosteroids, long hospital stay, intubation, and hospital-acquired infections are few possible causes. Evidence suggests that ACE2 receptors in salivary ducts, tongue, and other oral tissues have a high affinity for SARS-CoV-2. Therefore, it is important for clinicians to understand the different lesions that are most frequently seen in COVID-19 patients for proper management. In the present study, eight cases of oral manifestations in COVID-19 patients have been discussed along with their management. Tongue was found to be one of the most common sites due to the abundance of ACE2 receptors. Pigmentation, depapillation, hyperplastic papillae, benign migratory glossitis, and fungal overgrowth were noted on the tongue. Xerostomia, pigmentation, and fungal infection of oral mucosal surfaces, as well as oral ulceration, were other lesions.