According to a new research, a new side effect that could impact those recuperating from coronavirus has been discovered.
The immune system’s response to Covid-19 could result in ‘Covid toes.’
But what exactly are Covid toes, what are the symptoms, and what causes them?
Covid toes causes chilblain-like irritation and redness on the hands and feet, and the condition can linger for months.
It causes swollen or discolored toes and fingers and usually emerges within a week to four weeks of being infected with Covid.
It can affect people of any age, but it is more common in children and teenagers.
Some people have little pain, while others have a rash that is exceedingly itchy and painful, with sharp blisters and swelling.
The damaged skin, which primarily affects the toes but can also impact the fingers, can appear red or purple, and some people develop uncomfortable raised bumps or rough skin.
There could be pus, and some patients could be unwell for weeks, if not months.
What is the difference between chilblains and Covid toes?
Chilblains are itchy, tiny red patches that occur after being exposed to the cold. Chilblains often emerge a few hours after being exposed to the cold and affect your fingers and toes, but they can also affect your face and legs.
They normally go away on their own in two to three weeks, but if they don’t, you should consult a doctor.
What is the cause of Covid toes?
A new study – published in the British Journal of Dermatology – has found that Covid toes could be a side effect of the immune system’s response to coronavirus.
Researchers behind the study examined 50 participants with Covid toes and 13 with similar chilblains lesions that arose before the pandemic.
The study found that one mechanism behind both types of the condition involved the body generating an immune response with high levels of certain autoantibodies, which mistakenly target and react with a person’s own cells and tissues as well as the invading virus.
Researchers also found an overlap with type I interferon, which is a key protein in the antiviral response.
Cells lining blood vessels which supply the affected areas also appeared to play a critical role in the development of Covid toes and chilblains.
Senior author of the study, Dr Charles Cassius, said the research provided a deeper understanding of the condition.
He said: “The epidemiology and clinical features of chilblain-like lesions have been extensively studied and published, however, little is known about the pathophysiology involved.
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