Objectives Dry mouth or xerostomia has been reported as a symptom of COVID-19. This study aims to analyze the relationship between the SARS-COV-2 and xerostomia. Material and methods A comprehensive search across scientific databases, including MEDLINE (through PubMed), Google Scholar, Scopus, and Web of Science, was conducted according to the search strategy from December 2019 to May 2024. The study adheres to the PRISMA checklist, and all relevant articles were reviewed according to established inclusion and exclusion criteria. Result The review included 32 articles with various study designs. Findings indicate that xerostomia is a frequent oral manifestation observed in COVID-19 patients. Overall, studies have reported the prevalence of dry mouth ranging from 30 to 98.4%. Conclusion Although COVID-19 affects the oral cavity and salivary glands, the side effects of drugs may also contribute to xerostomia, with reported prevalence ranging from 30 to 98.4%. More studies are needed to assess the cause-and-effect relationship. To better understand the relationship between COVID-19 and xerostomia, future research should focus on longitudinal studies examining the direct and indirect effects of SARS-COV-2 and its treatments on salivary gland function and dry mouth. Specific questions include the extent of viral damage to salivary glands and the comparative impact of different treatments on xerostomia. Clinical relevance Since it has been shown that there is a high possibility that xerostomia occurs in COVID-19 patients, proactive management of this condition is essential. Implementing strategies to alleviate dry mouth, using appropriate medications, and using artificial saliva can improve patient comfort and treatment outcomes. However, it is important to recognize potential limitations and risks associated with these interventions. Artificial saliva may provide only temporary relief and could cause additional oral irritation with frequent use. Medications intended to manage xerostomia might have side effects and could complicate treatment management. Additionally, individual responses to treatment may vary, and existing studies often have small sample sizes or limited designs, affecting the generalizability of results. Clinical trial number: Not applicable.

Does COVID-19 cause xerostomia? A systematic review

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2025年4月1日

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Zahra Khoshkalam,
Sepideh Soheilifar,
Mohammad Hossein Khoshkalam

摘要

Objectives

Dry mouth or xerostomia has been reported as a symptom of COVID-19. This study aims to analyze the relationship between the SARS-COV-2 and xerostomia.

Material and methods

A comprehensive search across scientific databases, including MEDLINE (through PubMed), Google Scholar, Scopus, and Web of Science, was conducted according to the search strategy from December 2019 to May 2024. The study adheres to the PRISMA checklist, and all relevant articles were reviewed according to established inclusion and exclusion criteria.

Result

The review included 32 articles with various study designs. Findings indicate that xerostomia is a frequent oral manifestation observed in COVID-19 patients. Overall, studies have reported the prevalence of dry mouth ranging from 30 to 98.4%.

Conclusion

Although COVID-19 affects the oral cavity and salivary glands, the side effects of drugs may also contribute to xerostomia, with reported prevalence ranging from 30 to 98.4%. More studies are needed to assess the cause-and-effect relationship. To better understand the relationship between COVID-19 and xerostomia, future research should focus on longitudinal studies examining the direct and indirect effects of SARS-COV-2 and its treatments on salivary gland function and dry mouth. Specific questions include the extent of viral damage to salivary glands and the comparative impact of different treatments on xerostomia.

Clinical relevance

Since it has been shown that there is a high possibility that xerostomia occurs in COVID-19 patients, proactive management of this condition is essential. Implementing strategies to alleviate dry mouth, using appropriate medications, and using artificial saliva can improve patient comfort and treatment outcomes. However, it is important to recognize potential limitations and risks associated with these interventions. Artificial saliva may provide only temporary relief and could cause additional oral irritation with frequent use. Medications intended to manage xerostomia might have side effects and could complicate treatment management. Additionally, individual responses to treatment may vary, and existing studies often have small sample sizes or limited designs, affecting the generalizability of results.

Clinical trial number: Not applicable.