Asymptomatic COVID-19 infection in a child with nasal foreign body. (August 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Diercks, Gillian R.; Park, Brian J.; Myers, Laura B.; Kwolek, Christopher J.
• Is Part Of: International journal of pediatric otorhinolaryngology. Volume 135(2020:Aug.)
• Publication Date: 2020-08
• Subjects: SARS-CoV-2 -- COVID-19 -- Asymptomatic infection; Otolaryngology -- Periodicals; Pediatrics -- Periodicals; Otolaryngology -- Periodicals; Pediatrics -- Periodicals; Oto-rhino-laryngologie -- Périodiques; Pédiatrie -- Périodiques; 618.9209751
• DOI: 10.1016/j.ijporl.2020.110092
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0165-5876

Abstract

Abstract: While children, particularly infants, are susceptible to severe and critical COVID-19 disease, over 55% of pediatric cases are present in asymptomatic or mildly symptomatic children. Aerosolized SARS-CoV-2 viral particles remain viable for up to 3 hours, raising concern about risk to healthcare workers during aerosol generating procedures (APGs) in the airway and nasopharynx. Herein we describe the first case of a nasal foreign body in an asymptomatic child with SARS-CoV-2 infection. We discuss management of this child and highlight the importance of considering asymptomatic infection and preoperative testing when planning procedures of the airway in the COVID-19 era.