What causes COVID toe condition is explained

LONDON: While the classic symptoms of COVID-19 infections include a dry cough, fever, and shortness of breath, some people also experienced redness and swelling of the hands and toes, known as chilblain-like lesions.

A new study published in the British Journal of Dermatology investigates the underlying mechanisms of these conditions, also known as “COVID toes.”

According to the BBC, researchers at the University of Paris conducted blood and skin tests and discovered that two parts of the immune system, which involve mechanisms to fight COVID-19, could be the cause.

The first is an anti-viral protein known as Type-1 interferon, and the second is a type of antibody that incorrectly attacks the person’s own cells and tissues rather than the invading virus.

According to researchers from the University of Paris, France, cells lining small blood vessels supplying the affected areas are also involved.

According to the report, the team studied 50 people with suspected COVID toes in the spring of 2020, as well as 13 others with similar chilblains lesions that were not linked to COVID infections because they occurred before the pandemic began.

“The majority of lesions, like the common chilblains seen during cold spells and in people with circulatory problems, go away on their own. However, some people may require treatment with creams and other medications “According to Ivan Bristow, a UK podiatrist.

“Confirmation of the cause will aid in the development of new treatments to more effectively manage it,” he added.

COVID toe, which appears to be a side effect of the body-switching into attack mode to fight off the virus, can occur at any age but is more common in children and teenagers.

It may be painless for some, but the rash can be extremely sore and itchy, with tender blisters and swelling. Some, on the other hand, develop painful raised bumps or rough skin areas with pus. People suffering from the condition frequently do not exhibit any of the classic COVID symptoms, which can last for months or weeks.

The COVID toe condition was common in the early stages of the pandemic but has since declined. That could be due to more people being vaccinated or having some protection against COVID-19 from previous infections, according to Veronique Bataille, a consultant dermatologist and spokeswoman for the British Skin Foundation.