Skin rashes emerge as possible symptom of COVID-19, dermatologists say
The skin-rash symptoms range from hives to measles-like rashes to a condition resembling frostbite.
LOS ANGELES, California -- Certain skin rashes are emerging as possible symptoms of COVID-19, prompting additional research by some doctors and guidance by the American Academy of Dermatology.
"It just was so painful," said Jessica, a Los Angeles woman who contracted the novel coronavirus, describing painful red irritation on her feet. Eyewitness News is identifying the woman only by her first name to maintain her privacy.
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Jessica developed a cough and fever, but later exhibited other symptoms that have not been widely associated with the virus.
"I looked down, I was getting in the shower, I was like, 'Oh my gosh, my toe is turning blue," she recalled. "I felt like I had really bad blisters on it."
When she tried to lightly scratch an itch, her blood vessels ruptured.
Jessica's dermatologist, Dr. Shirley Chi, was stumped -- until she began examining research from overseas.
"When I first saw this mysterious rash, I just didn't know what to make of it," Chi said. "In northern Italy there was a study that showed that out of 148 patients at this hospital -- none of which had gotten prior medication -- one in five had a rash associated with their condition, COVID-19."
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The American Academy of Dermatology has issued guidance regarding several different types of rashes that have been connected with COVID-19.
The symptoms range from hives to measles-like rashes to a condition resembling frostbite.
Chi emphasized the importance of individual patients contacting their doctor for treatment.
"That's why the American Academy of Dermatology is putting together a registry," and that's why it's important to contact your doctor if you have symptoms like this."
