Assessment of Corneal Endothelial Cell Parameters Using Specular Microscopy in Previously Infected SARS-CoV-2 Patients

Abstract

Purpose To assess the effects of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS CoV 2) infection on the endothelium of the cornea. Methods A cross-sectional, comparative study with subjects previously infected by SARS CoV 2 infection for not less than six months (group 1) and a group of sex and age-matched controls without previous infection of SARS CoV 2 (group 2). Endothelial cell parameters were examined using specular microscopy. Following full ophthalmologic examination the groups were matched with controls of the same sex and age with no prior ocular surface pathologies. Results 64 and fifty-three right eyes were examined in both groups one and two, respectively. Between the 2 groups no differences in any of the examined specular parameters were detected that are statistically significant. Conclusion No delayed effects on the corneal endothelium appear to be caused by SARS CoV 2 infection. Further studies comparing the same subject before and after infection will be of significance.