NEW in COVID-19: Skin Rashes Linked to Virus

As scientists and doctors worldwide try to quickly expand their knowledge to fight COVID-19, new developments are being found and shared, including information on a variety of rashes linked to the virus. 

In fact, rashes are presenting in approximately 20% of COVID patients, making it an indicator of the virus, and prompting dermatologists to take part in the treatment plan.

 

What we know about the COVID-19 rashes

There are a variety of rashes now linked to COVID-19. On the legs, it can present like a “transient livedo recticularis”, or a red rash usually seen in autoimmune patients, but this one comes and goes. 

On the toes and fingers, it’s been more commonly painful blisters. Some COVID-related rashes are showing on asymptomatic patients who tend to be younger, and other times the rashes have presented after admission for COVID-19 as an additional complication.

“Dr. Jorge Garcia-Zuazaga, founder of Apex Dermatology and practicing physician says, “We are learning lots about this virus and its different manifestations as it continues to evolve.”

 

 

What to do if you see a rash on you or a family member

For most patients, it will be best to begin with a TeleDermatology appointment. This way our board-certified dermatologists can look at the rash quickly and safely while you remain at home. 

If they deem you should come in for an in-person assessment, they will advise you of that.

Dr. Garcia-Zuazaga urges, “Any patient with a new rash should be evaluated ASAP.”

He adds, “At Apex we’ve always been about expert dermatology care and quick access. And right now, that’s more important to our community than ever.”

For healthcare professionals:

If you have a current COVID patient with a suspicious rash, please reach out so we can work collaboratively on a plan of care for the patient.

We will also submit any findings to the AAD to ensure that findings are able to be quantified for better understanding and knowledge of the virus.

 

 

To schedule a Tele-Derm Appointment:

TeleDermatolgoy and in-office visits can be scheduled by calling 833-279-7546 or at this link here.

 

Information and resources

• https://www.apexskin.com/teledermatology/
• https://www.apexskin.com/covid-19-coronavirus-information-and-protocol/
• https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMc2007575
• https://www.instagram.com/p/B-c0xEqJJ1m/?utm_source=ig_embed
• https://www.health.com/condition/infectious-diseases/coronavirus/does-coronavirus-cause-a-rhttps://abc7news.com/health/skin-rashes-emerge-as-possible-covid-19-symptom/6113995/