ANOSMIA IN COVID-19 INFECTION - A CASE SERIES

Background:The aim of this study is to highlight anosmia as an important symptom to predict SARS-CoV-2 infection. The presentation of the disease commonly includes fever, cough, weakness, myalgia and breathlessness making anosmia a rare symptom. Methods:We included a total of 10 patients in the study who were between the age group of 18-70 years with the complaints of anosmia. Results:8 out of the 10 patients had come with fever and cough initially and developed anosmia later. However, 2 patients had presented to us with anosmia alone as the first symptom and then on further evaluation were found to be COVID-19 positive. The available clinical data was collected, recorded and the results were analyzed. Conclusion:Anosmia is a rare or late, but contributory symptom of the coronavirus disease. Thus, clinicians should keep in mind the diagnosis of COVID-19 while treating patients presenting with such atypical symptoms for early detection & in-time treatment of COVID 19 infection to prevent complications associated with the disease.