Detection of SARS‐CoV‐2 in saliva and characterization of oral symptoms in COVID‐19 patients

Abstract

This study confirms the expression of ACE2 in the salivary glands and demonstrates the possibility of SARS-CoV-2 infection of salivary glands. Saliva may be a new source of diagnostic specimens for critically ill patients, since it can be easily collected without any invasive procedures. In addition, dry mouth and amblygeustia can be considered as initial symptoms of COVID-19 infection.