SARS-CoV-2 Is Present in Peritoneal Fluid in COVID-19 Patients

Coccolini, Federico; Tartaglia, Dario; Puglisi, Adolfo; Giordano, Cesira; Pistello, Mauro; Lodato, Marianna; Chiarugi, Massimo

BACKGROUND: The excretion pathomechanisms of SARS-CoV-2 are actually unknown. No certain data exist about viral load in the different body compartments and fluids during the different disease phases. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Specific real-time reverse transcriptase–polymerase chain reaction targeting 3 SARS-CoV-e genes were used to detect the presence of the virus. RESULTS: SARS-CoV-2 was detected in peritoneal fluid at a higher concentration than in respiratory tract. CONCLUSION: Detection of SARS-CoV-2 in peritoneal fluid has never been reported. The present article represents the very first positive result describing the presence of the virus in peritoneal fluid during an emergency surgical procedure in a COVID-19 sick patient. This article thus represents a warning for increasing the level of awareness and protection for surgeon especially in emergency surgical setting.