BASCULE syndrome in a child with prior asymptomatic COVID-19 infection

Abstract

BASCULE syndrome, characterized by Bier anemic spots, cyanosis, and an urticaria-like eruption, has been described as a benign vasomotor dermatosis that occurs in the setting of transient tissue hypoxia. It has been postulated that dermal ischemia triggers an exaggerated vasoconstrictive arteriolar reaction, which then causes a paradoxical urticarial rash by an unknown mechanism. In patients with COVID-19, there is evidence of angiocentric inflammation leading to vasoconstriction, endothelial damage, and thrombosis. We present a case of acute-onset BASCULE syndrome appearing after asymptomatic infection with COVID-19. BASCULE syndrome should be considered in the expanding spectrum of dermatologic manifestations associated with COVID-19.

Keywords: BASCULE syndrome; COVID-19; cyanosis; paradoxical urticarial.