COVID-19 Vaccines and the Skin: The Landscape of Cutaneous Vaccine Reactions Worldwide

Dermatol Clin. 2021 Oct;39(4):653-673. doi: 10.1016/j.det.2021.05.016. Epub 2021 May 31.

Abstract

In 2021, we entered a new phase of the COVID-19 pandemic. As mass vaccinations are underway and more vaccines are approved, it is important to recognize cutaneous adverse events. We review the dermatologic manifestations of COVID-19 vaccines as reported in clinical trial data and summarize additional observational reports of skin reactions to COVID-19 vaccines. Early-onset local injection reactions were the most common cutaneous side effects observed in clinical trials; delayed injection reactions were the most common cutaneous side effect reported outside of clinical trials. Understanding the landscape of cutaneous manifestations to COVID-19 vaccines is key to providing appropriate vaccine guidance.

Keywords: Adverse; COVID-19; Cutaneous; Moderna; Reactions; Side effects; Urticaria; Vaccines.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Administration, Cutaneous
  • Adverse Drug Reaction Reporting Systems / statistics & numerical data*
  • COVID-19 Vaccines / adverse effects*
  • Drug Eruptions / epidemiology
  • Drug Eruptions / etiology*
  • Drug-Related Side Effects and Adverse Reactions / diagnosis*
  • Humans
  • Registries*

Substances

  • COVID-19 Vaccines