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Oberhausen. Every day, doctors learn more about the new Sars-CoV-2 corona virus. Because the disease affects several organ systems and thus shows different facets. First indications now also point to dermatological symptoms.
“In addition to flu symptoms, viral infections very often trigger itchy rashes,” explains Prof. Dr. Alexander Kreuter, chief physician of dermatology, venereology and allergology at Helios St. Elisabeth Klinik Oberhausen. In connection with COVID-19, doctors are now also increasingly observing dermatological abnormalities – but this time also unusual symptoms that resemble Perniones, colloquially frostbite. A rather unusual clinical picture given the currently warm temperatures.
Especially in young corona patients, feet and fingers show dark red to bluish, swollen changes. “Some people call it the corona toe,” added Kreuter. Italian and Spanish working groups, among others, were able to document these symptoms. “We at the Oberhausen Dermatology Clinic are increasingly being asked about the symptoms by practices and other hospitals,” reports the specialist for autoimmune diseases and calms down: “In most cases, the changes heal themselves after about a week without permanent damage such as discoloration or To leave scars. In addition to these changes, Sars-CoV-2 can also cause very non-specific itchy rashes with blisters or nodules or hives. ”
The dermatologist emphasizes: “Of course, this does not immediately mean that a cough and rash are a sure sign of an infection with Sars-CoV-2. But if the symptoms of infection are in question, skin changes that look like classic frostbite or a rare form of chilblain lupus (frostbite lupus) can be an indicator for the differential diagnosis COVID-19 – especially in younger people. “
Kreuter also appeals to his colleagues to report the course of diseases at central points. Helios also maintains a COVID 19 register. In Germany, all corona diseases in the 86 Helios clinics are recorded and documented in detail. “We learn something new with every new case,” says the dermatologist. “The knowledge gained will enable health facilities to better adapt to the virus in the future and to protect vulnerable groups in a more targeted manner.”
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