Comparison of anterior segment parameters, corneal endothelial cell density, and coefficient of variation in COVID-19 and healthy groups

Abstract

Purpose: This research aimed to compare the anterior segment parameters, the corneal endothelial cell density (ECD), and the coefficient of variation (CV) of endothelial cells in COVID-19 patients and healthy individuals. Methods: A total of 34 cases and 34 healthy individuals were included in this study. The patient group had a history of COVID-19 infection and hospitalization. The participants underwent full optometric examinations on their right eye, which included, autorefractometry, retinoscopy, ophthalmoscopy, slit lamp, and examinations with specular microscope and Pentacam devices. The same procedures were carried out on the right eyes of healthy individuals, and the results were contrasted. Both the infected group and the healthy group had also received vaccinations. Results: The average corneal ECD was 311.76±2503.78 in the patient group and 276.65±2831.72 in the healthy group, which indicated a significant decrease in the patient group, compared to the healthy group. There was a significant difference in the ECD between the two groups (P<0.001). Moreover, the CV of cells was 36.63 in the healthy group and 37 in the patient group, which was increased. No significant differences were observed in the other anterior segment parameters, such as the central corneal thickness, anterior chamber angle, keratometry, corneal horizontal diameter, and pupil diameter (P>0.05). Conclusion: Individuals who have previously overcome COVID-19 experienced a reduction in the corneal ECD and an increase in cell CV, as revealed by tests using a specular microscope and Pentacam devices. These findings could contribute to our comprehension of the systemic impacts of COVID-19 on the body.