COVID-19 Infection Linked to Increased Risk of Skin Conditions

A recent study revealed that COVID-19 infection increases the risk of developing dermatological conditions, including vitiligo, chronic urticaria, alopecia areata, and herpes zoster. The research analyzed data from 5 million individuals diagnosed with COVID-19 between April 2021 and March 2022. Using South Korea's national health database, the team compared these cases with control patients, adjusting for variables such as age, sex, income, and residence.

The study found a statistically significant increase in the incidence of these skin conditions following COVID-19 infection. Specifically, patients with COVID-19 showed higher risks for vitiligo (HR 1.15; 95% CI, 1.06-1.24; P = .0006), chronic urticaria (HR 1.13; 95% CI, 1.10-1.16; P < .0001), alopecia areata (HR 1.14; 95% CI, 1.09-1.18; P < .0001), and herpes zoster (HR 1.15, 95% CI 1.13-1.17, P < .0001), even after adjusting for confounders. The study suggests that factors such as female sex, older age, and obesity may contribute to the overlap between COVID-19 and these conditions.

Despite the decline in the immediate public health impact of COVID-19, the long-term complications, including skin-related autoimmune conditions, continue to be a concern globally. The research highlights the need for continued exploration into the lasting effects of COVID-19 on dermatological health. The study's authors emphasize the importance of further research to understand the mechanisms behind these correlations and to raise awareness of potential post-COVID skin conditions.

References

1. HCPLive. COVID-19 may increase risk of vitiligo, chronic urticaria, alopecia areata. Published January 2, 2025. Accessed January 8, 2025. https://www.hcplive.com/view/covid-19-may-increase-risk-of-vitiligo-chronic-urticaria-alopecia-areata

2. Kim MH. Epidemiological insights into chronic urticaria, vitiligo, alopecia areata, and herpes zoster following COVID-19 infection: A nationwide population-based study. J Dermatol. 2024;00:1–6. doi:10.1111/1346-8138.17600