Oral manifestations in patients infected with COVID-19

Abstract

Introduction:In addition to the characteristic clinical picture of respiratory infection, patients with COVID-19 can also be diagnosed with oral manifestations. Aim: The aim of this study was to review current literature for the prevalence of changes in the oral cavity i.e., the presence of oral symptoms in patients with COVID-19, in order to indicate that oral manifestations may occur due to viral infection with SARS-CoV-2. Methods: Important information relevant to the study was obtained by searching the available electronic PubMed and Google Scholar database. Results: Oral lesions were found in different locations in patients with COVID-19: tongue mucosa (dorsum and lateral sides of the tongue), buccal mucosa, hard and soft palate, inner lip and gingiva. The most common were ulcerations in different parts of the oral cavity. It is still unclear whether oral lesions in SARS-CoV-2 virus infection were a consequence of the primary effect of the virus itself or a secondary manifestation of the infection. The high presence of angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 in oral epithelial cells of the tongue and salivary glands indicates that the oral cavity may be particularly susceptible to SARS-CoV-2 infection. Taste disorder is the most common oral symptom in patients with COVID-19. Conclusion: Oral lesions, xerostomia, taste disorders can occur in patients diagnosed with COVID-19. Therefore, a comprehensive intraoral examination is necessary in order to determine changes in the oral cavity and apply proper treatment.