Detecting SARS-CoV-2 in Tears

Detecting SARS-CoV-2 Virus in Tears From Patients With COVID-19

Purpose:

• To determine the presence of SARS-CoV-2 in tears
• To determine SARS-CoV-2 receptors in tear production system

This is a prospective case series. NP swab and tear samples will be collected simultaneously from the confirmed or suspected COVID-19 patients. The samples will be transferred to the lab for SARS-CoV-2 testing. The presence of absence of SARS-CoV-2 will be compared in tears versus NP swabs.

The second part of the study is a histopathology examination series. Normal lacrimal gland and ocular surface tissue samples already stored at the UMN ocular pathology lab and Lion's Gift of Sight Eye Bank will be used for IHC staining for ACE2 and similar targets.

Inclusion Criteria:

- Patients presenting at study sites with confirmed or suspected COVID-19

Exclusion Criteria:

• Pregnancy or nursing
• non-English speakers
• Those unable to read
• Those in other vulnerable study populations