The Association Between COVID-19 Infection and Gabrin Sign: A Case-Control Study
February 2024
in “
Indian Dermatology Online Journal
”
Studysummary In this study, researchers at a tertiary care center reported a significant correlation between severe COVID-19 cases and the presence of androgenic alopecia, suggesting that androgen receptor expression may influence COVID-19 severity.
Our plain-language summary. Not medical advice or a treatment recommendation. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before changing treatment. Full disclaimer
This study investigates the correlation between COVID-19 severity and androgenic alopecia (AGA) in 540 hospitalized patients (270 with AGA and 270 controls). The findings reveal a significant association between AGA, particularly the "Gabrin sign," and increased COVID-19 severity and mortality. Patients with positive Gabrin sign had a 14.2% mortality rate compared to 5.7% in those with a negative sign. The study suggests that androgen receptor expression may influence COVID-19 severity, highlighting the potential role of antiandrogen therapy in treatment. Despite limitations like sample size and single-center design, the results support further research into androgen sensitivity's impact on COVID-19.
