The Diagnostic Challenge of the New Coronavirus: A Case Report O Desafio Diagnóstico do Novo Coronavírus: A Propósito de um Caso Clínico

Abstract

COVID-19 is the name attributed by the World Health Organization to the disease caused by the new coronavirus SARS-CoV-2, which can cause severe acute respiratory syndrome, such as pneumonia. It was declared a pandemic on 11 March 2020. The knowledge about the diagnostic tests is still evolving, as well as its correct interpretation. We present a case of a 67-year-old male with history of hypertension and glaucoma. He had long lasting clinic of fever, asthenia and myalgia. Computed tomography scan of the chest showed peripheral infiltrates suggestive of atypical pneumonia. He started therapy with hydroxychloroquine and azithromycin, due to high suspicion for COVID-19 disease, despite the fact that only the third SARS-CoV-2 test in the pharyngeal exudate was positive.