Chikungunya Virus Infection in the Skin: Histopathology and Cutaneous Immunological Response

    January 2025 in “ Frontiers in Microbiology ”
    Natália Gedeão Salomão, Luciana Ferreira de Araújo, Luíz José de Souza, Anna Luiza Soares Young, Carlos Alberto Basílio‐de‐Oliveira, Rodrigo Basílio-de-Oliveira, Jorge José de Carvalho, Priscilla Conrado Guerra Nunes, Juliana Fernandes Amorim da Silva, Douglas Valiati dos Santos Barbosa, Marciano Viana Paes, Kíssila Rabelo, Flávia Barreto dos Santos
    TLDR Chikungunya virus often causes skin issues and inflammation.
    This study examines the histopathological and immunological responses in the skin during Chikungunya virus (CHIKV) infection, based on samples from 9 patients during a Brazilian epidemic. It finds that skin manifestations, such as erythematous eruptions and vesiculobullous lesions, occur in 40-80% of infections. Histopathological analysis shows perivascular and inflammatory infiltrates, blood capillary ectasia, and interstitial edema. CHIKV antigens were found in various skin cells, with inflammatory infiltrates composed of lymphocytes and macrophages. Pro-inflammatory cytokines like TNF-α and IL-6 were elevated, contributing to the inflammatory response. The study highlights the skin's dual role as a barrier and immune organ, enhancing understanding of CHIKV's pathogenesis and clinical progression.
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