OTOLARYNGOLOGICAL MANIFESTATIONS IN COVID-19 POSITIVE PATIENTS: A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY
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Keywords
COVID-19, SARS-CoV-2, Anosmia, Dysgeusia, Otolaryngological manifestations, India
Abstract
The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has revealed diverse clinical presentations affecting multiple organ systems. Otolaryngological symptoms have emerged as significant early indicators of SARS-CoV-2 infection, particularly in the Indian population where such manifestations require regional documentation.
Objectives: To determine the prevalence and pattern of otolaryngological manifestations among COVID-19 positive patients presenting to Adesh Medical College & Hospital, Mohri Shahbad, and to analyze their correlation with disease severity during the period of September 2020 to April 2021.
Methodology: A hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted on 284 RT-PCR confirmed COVID-19 positive patients. Data was collected through structured interviews and clinical examinations. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 25.0, employing descriptive statistics and chi-square tests.
Results: Among 284 patients, the most common otolaryngological manifestations were anosmia (62.3%), dysgeusia (58.8%), sore throat (47.5%), nasal congestion (41.2%), and rhinorrhea (28.5%). These symptoms were more prevalent in mild to moderate disease categories. Anosmia and dysgeusia showed significant association with younger age groups (p<0.05).
Conclusion: Otolaryngological symptoms are highly prevalent in COVID-19 patients and serve as important early diagnostic indicators. Recognition of these manifestations is crucial for timely identification and isolation of cases in rural healthcare settings.
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Dr. Kanani Ashvin Ishvarbhai
Assistant Professor, Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Adesh Medical College & Hospital, Mohri, Shahbad, Haryana, India
Dr. Patel Sahadevbhai Nagjibhai
Assistant Professor, Department of General Medicine, Adesh Medical College & Hospital, Mohri, Shahbad, Haryana, India
