A Review of COVID-19 Chilblains-like Lesions and Their Differential Diagnoses

• Published in: Advances in Skin & Wound Care
• Main Authors: Sachdeva, Muskaan, Mufti, Asfandyar, Maliyar, Khalad, Lara-Corrales, Irene, Salcido, Richard, Sibbald, Cathryn
• Format: Article in Journal/Newspaper
• Language: English
• Published: Ovid Technologies (Wolters Kluwer Health) 2021
• Subjects: Arctic
• Online Access: http://dx.doi.org/10.1097/01.asw.0000752692.72055.74; https://journals.lww.com/10.1097/01.ASW.0000752692.72055.74

ABSTRACT This review article focuses on the pathogenesis, clinical features, and diagnostic testing of the common pathologies that can manifest as chilblains-like lesions. These differentials include “COVID toes,” Raynaud phenomenon, acrocyanosis, critical limb ischemia, thromboangiitis obliterans, chilblains associated with lupus erythematosus, and idiopathic chilblains. The authors present a helpful mnemonic, ARCTIC, to assist clinicians in recognition and diagnosis. GENERAL PURPOSE To familiarize wound care practitioners with the differential diagnoses of chilblains-like lesions that could be associated with the complications of COVID-19. TARGET AUDIENCE This continuing education activity is intended for physicians, physician assistants, nurse practitioners, and nurses with an interest in skin and wound care. LEARNING OBJECTIVES/OUTCOMES After participating in this educational activity, the participant will: 1. Identify the population most often affected by COVID toes. 2. Select the assessments that help differentiate the various conditions that cause chilblains-like lesions. 3. Choose appropriate treatment options for the various conditions that cause chilblains-like lesions.