Chilblain-like lesions onset during SARS-CoV-2 infection in a COVID-19-vaccinated adolescent: case report and review of literature

Ital J Pediatr. 2022 Jun 13;48(1):93. doi: 10.1186/s13052-022-01296-5.

Abstract

Background: COVID toes or chilblain-like skin lesions have been widely reported during COVID-19 pandemic. Most cases were described in patients with negative microbiological tests for SARS-CoV-2, therefore the possible relationship with SARS-CoV-2 infection, as well as with the nowadays broadly available mRNA-based vaccination, has not been fully elucidated. CASE PRESENTATION: We here describe the case of a 14-year-old male who developed chilblain-like skin eruptions during SARS-CoV-2 infection despite two mRNA-based vaccine doses and review the clinical and epidemiological characteristics of chilblain-like lesions as a cutaneous presentation of COVID-19 in children.

Conclusions: Most children and adolescent with COVID toes have a mild or asymptomatic SARS-CoV-2 infection. Our report aims to highlight the possible onset of these skin lesions in vaccinated children, if infection has occurred, and the potential use of systemic corticosteroids as a first line treatment. Additional evidence is required to better understand SARS-CoV-2 infection and cutaneous manifestations in children and determine the relationship between chilblain-like lesions and COVID-19 vaccination.

Keywords: COVID-19; Case report; Chilblain-like lesions; Children; SARS-CoV-2 vaccination.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • COVID-19 Vaccines / adverse effects
  • COVID-19* / diagnosis
  • Chilblains* / diagnosis
  • Chilblains* / etiology
  • Child
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Pandemics
  • RNA, Messenger
  • SARS-CoV-2
  • Skin Diseases* / complications

Substances

  • COVID-19 Vaccines
  • RNA, Messenger