J. Hjelmesæth, D. Skaare
tlooto Summary
The case histories of two cases (spouses) with SARS-CoV-2 infection with self-reported OTDs, but otherwise no typical respiratory symptoms of COVID-19 are reported, support recent reports hypothesising that anosmia and ageusia may be the only symptoms of SARS
Abstract
BACKGROUND Olfactory and taste disorders (OTDs) have recently been reported among patients with COVID-19, and it has been hypothesised that oral and nasal tissues may contain host cells of SARS-CoV-2. We report on two cases (spouses) with SARS-CoV-2 infection with self-reported OTDs, but otherwise no typical respiratory symptoms of COVID-19.
CASE PRESENTATION A man in his nineties (index patient) had respiratory symptoms and dysgeusia, and was diagnosed with COVID-19. His daughter-in-law and son had no respiratory COVID-19 symptoms. However, they experienced complete loss of smell and taste, respectively, 7 and 10 days after their first close contact with the index patient. Both tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 RNA.
INTERPRETATION Our case histories support recent reports hypothesising that anosmia and ageusia may be the only symptoms of SARS-CoV-2 infection, and that SARS-CoV-2 may infect oral and nasal tissues. Together, these findings may inform future research, diagnosis, prevention and treatment of COVID-19.
Citation format
HJELMESÆTH, J.; SKAARE, D. Loss of smell or taste as the only symptom of COVID-19. TIDSSKRIFT FOR DEN NORSKE LAEGEFORENING, 2020, 140 7.