Autoimmune Skin Diseases In The Era Of COVID-19: Pathophysiological Insights And Clinical Implications

    September 2025 in “ Microorganisms ”
    Aikaterini Ι. Liakou, Eleni Routsi, Kalliopi Plisioti, Eleni Tziona, Dimitra Koumaki, Magdalini Kalamata, Evangelia‐Konstantina Bompou, Rozeta Sokou, Πέτρος Ιωάννου, Stefanos Bonovas, George Samonis, Andreas G. Tsantes, Alexander J. Stratigos
    TLDR COVID-19 can worsen autoimmune skin diseases and increase their occurrence.
    The review explores the complex relationship between COVID-19 and autoimmune skin diseases (ASDs), such as alopecia areata, psoriasis, and hidradenitis suppurativa. It highlights that SARS-CoV-2 can trigger or exacerbate ASDs through mechanisms like molecular mimicry and dysregulated immune responses. Epidemiological studies show increased incidence and flares of ASDs post-COVID-19 infection and vaccination, with mRNA vaccines posing a higher risk for hidradenitis suppurativa flares. Severe COVID-19 is linked to a higher risk of new-onset autoimmune diseases, while patients with existing inflammatory skin conditions may be more susceptible to infection but tend to have milder COVID-19. The findings emphasize the importance of continued research to understand these interactions and guide patient management.
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