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New-onset vitiligo following COVID-19 disease
A Herzum1, C Micalizzi1, M F Molle1
1Department of Dermatology Di.S.Sal. San Martino Polyclinic Hospital IRCCS University of Genoa Genoa Italy.
New-onset vitiligo can occur after COVID-19 infection, presenting as a T CD8+ cell-mediated autoimmune skin reaction. This case highlights a potential cutaneous manifestation of the disease, distinct from vaccine-associated reactions.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Immunology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- COVID-19 and its vaccines are linked to various skin reactions.
- New-onset vitiligo and hypopigmentations have been reported post-vaccination, but not post-infection.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report a case of vitiligo developing after COVID-19 infection.
- To explore potential mechanisms for COVID-19-induced vitiligo.
Main Methods:
- Case report of a 45-year-old woman.
- Clinical observation of skin lesion progression and stabilization.
Main Results:
- Vitiligo developed two weeks after COVID-19 infection.
- Skin lesions stabilized one month after initial spreading.
Conclusions:
- COVID-19 infection may trigger autoimmune vitiligo.
- Possible mechanisms include molecular mimicry and bystander activation.
- Clinicians should recognize this potential autoimmune cutaneous reaction.
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