A Study of Cutaneous Manifestations in Patients During the Post-COVID Period in A Tertiary Care Center

The post-COVID period has been associated with various systemic complications, including dermatological manifestations. Understanding the spectrum of cutaneous manifestations following coronavirus disease of 2019 (COVID-19) infection is essential for early diagnosis and appropriate management. This study aims to assess the prevalence and types of cutaneous manifestations in patients recovering from COVID-19 at a tertiary care center.

A cross-sectional observational study was conducted at the Dermatology, Venereology, and Leprosy (DVL) outpatient department of Bharati Vidyapeeth (Deemed to be University) Medical College and Hospital, Sangli, over a period of 6 months. A total of 50 patients presenting with new or worsening cutaneous symptoms at least 4 weeks after COVID-19 recovery were included. Clinical and demographic data were documented, and dermatological examinations were performed.

The most commonly observed cutaneous manifestation was telogen effluvium (30%), followed by herpes infection (20%), acne (16%), and pityriasis rosea (6%). Other conditions included lichen planus, psoriasis, vasculitis, erythema multiforme, vitiligo, and dermatomyositis. Middle-aged individuals were predominantly affected, and females exhibited a higher prevalence (58%) than males (42%).

Post-COVID cutaneous manifestations exhibit a diverse range of presentations, necessitating a multidisciplinary approach for timely recognition and intervention. Further studies with larger sample sizes are required to establish potential mechanisms linking COVID-19 with dermatological sequelae.