New‐onset vitiligo following COVID‐19 disease

Abstract

Abstract Background Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) disease and vaccines have been associated to various skin reactions, which are mostly similar amongst them. New onset of vitiligo and hypopigmentations have been described following COVID‐19 vaccination, but never after COVID‐19 infection. Objectives We present the case of a 45‐year‐old woman, who developed vitiligo 2 weeks after COVID‐19 disease. Skin lesions stabilized after 1 month of initial spreading. Results Vitiligo is a relatively common acquired pigmentary disorder, possibly caused by a T CD8+ cell‐mediated autoimmune process, which may be enhanced after the immune activation of COVID‐19 disease. Molecular mimicry and bystander activation have been advocated as possible pathogenic mechanisms of vitiligo after COVID‐19 vaccination. The same mechanisms may also be involved as possible vitiligo triggers during COVID‐19 disease. Conclusions Clinicians should be aware of this possible autoimmune cutaneous reaction to COVID‐19 disease.