The Impact of COVID-19 Vaccination on Inflammatory Skin Disorders and Other Cutaneous Diseases: A Review of the Published Literature

Viruses. 2023 Jun 23;15(7):1423. doi: 10.3390/v15071423.

Abstract

Background: Four vaccines have been authorized by the European Medicines Agency (EMA): viral vector-based vaccines (AstraZeneca; AZD1222 and Johnson & Johnson; Ad26.COV2. and 2 mRNA-based vaccines (Pfizer/BioNTech; BNT162b2 and Moderna; mRNA-1273). Adverse events (AEs) related to vaccination have been described in the literature. The main aim of the dermatological practice was to avoid the diffusion of COVID-19, allowing the continuity of care for patients. Objective: The aim of this review article is to investigate current literature regarding cutaneous reactions following COVID-19 vaccination, mainly inflammatory dermatological diseases. Materials and methods: Investigated manuscripts included metanalyses, reviews, letters to the editor, real-life studies, case series, and reports. Results: We selected a total of 234 articles involving more than 550 patients. We have divided the results section into various sub-sections to ensure greater understanding for readers. Conclusions: Clinicians should keep in mind the possibility of new onsets or the worsening of several dermatoses following vaccination in order to promptly recognize and treat these AEs. Certainly, vaccination should not be discouraged.

Keywords: alopecia areata; atopic dermatitis; bullous pemphigoid; hidradenitis suppurativa; lichen planus; pemphigus vulgaris; psoriasis; vitiligo.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • BNT162 Vaccine
  • COVID-19 Vaccines* / adverse effects
  • COVID-19* / prevention & control
  • ChAdOx1 nCoV-19
  • Humans
  • Vaccination / adverse effects
  • Viral Vaccines

Substances

  • BNT162 Vaccine
  • ChAdOx1 nCoV-19
  • COVID-19 Vaccines
  • Viral Vaccines

Grants and funding

This research received no external funding.