By now, everyone knows the common symptoms of the COVID-19 infection: cough, fever, shortness of breath. However, several less common symptoms have recently been reported. These include appetite loss, diarrhea, loss of taste or smell sensation, and “COVID toes”.
In April, a report from Spain introduced the first cases of COVID toes. These patients developed strange red or purple discoloration of the toes, associated with positive testing for the virus. Many cases have since been reported , and some cases have also involved the fingers. The discoloration is often accompanied by pain, swelling, itching, and burning. Sometimes a rash resembling chickenpox appears. COVID toes resolve without treatment , and no permanent damage occurs.
COVID toes tend to occur most often in younger patients, especially those in their twenties. The condition can occur before any other COVID symptoms occur, or may occur long after a diagnosed COVID case resolves. The cause of the condition is unknown, with the two most popular theories being an inflammatory reaction to the virus, or small blood clots in the small vessels of the skin.
If you experience any such changes in your feet, don’t hesitate to seek evaluation and treatment at one of our offices. The doctors of Melbourne Podiatry Associates have expertise in the diagnosis and treatment of all skin problems of the foot , leg, and ankle.