Sicca syndrome post-COVID-19 infection: a case report

Abstract

Introduction and importance: The COVID-19 pandemic has led to a post-acute syndrome that can persist for a prolonged period. Case presentation: The authors’ case reported a 31-years-old male presented with the sensation of sand in his eyes and a dry mouth for 3 months after infection with COVID-19 confirmed by nasopharyngeal swab 3 months ago. Laboratory tests including immunological profile were normal. Schirmer’s test was positive. He was treated with artificial tears with corticosteroid drops and water drinking. Within 15 days he noticed an improvement in his sicca symptoms. Clinical discussion: The post-acute COVID-19 syndrome can persist for a longer duration than expected, even after the acute onset of the disease. Some patients may experience ocular and oral symptoms such as dry mouth, dysgeusia, and dry eye diseases. The pathophysiology of these symptoms may be related to viral pathophysiologic changes, immunologic aberrations, and inflammatory reactions that destroy the tissue of salivary glands. Additionally, there is evidence of elevated autoantibodies in post-COVID-19 patients. Future studies are needed to understand the sequela of this infection. Conclusion: What makes this case special is the combination of dry eyes and dry mouth with a negative immunological profile in a young patient who had COVID without severe symptoms.