Unraveling Dermatological Manifestations after COVID-19: Insights from Skin Pigmentation and Hair Loss Patterns

In addition to respiratory symptoms, COVID-19 has been linked to many clinical manifestations, such as changes in skin pigmentation and hair loss. The objective of this research was to examine these manifestations.

Cross-sectional research was performed at Afzalipour Hospital in Kerman, Iran, between June and August 2021. COVID-19-recovered patients were included in the study, and data were obtained via medical records, verbal interviews, and self-administered questionnaires. Statistical investigations evaluated the relationships between manifestations, demographic factors, and clinical indications.

Among the 190-study population, 76.3% encountered alopecia, while 15.3% indicated changes in skin pigmentation. The prevalence of hair loss was considerably higher among females (P=0.002). The hair loss patterns exhibited characteristics similar to telogen effluvium (TE), with a higher occurrence in the frontal region of the head. There was a relationship between hair loss and the level of arterial oxygen saturation.

This research emphasizes a significant prevalence of alopecia after the recovery from COVID-19, especially among females. It is crucial to provide proactive care and support to people who have recovered from COVID-19, including customized therapies that specifically target post-COVID-19 problems.