I have a skin disease. Does it mean I have a higher risk of infection by COVID-19? In the light of present knowledge, there does not seem to be a higher risk of infection by COVID-19 , when you have a skin disease. Which is true even for autoimmune diseases, such as psoriasis. But I am taking medication, an immunosuppressant, which is said to diminish my defences. Even in skin diseases under immunosuppressant medication, there does not seem to be a higher risk of infection by COVID-19. And if I get infected by COVID-19, my immunosuppressant medication increases the risk of a more serious and complicated infection? In the absence of scientific evidence, it is presumed that infection by COVID-19 may be more complicated and imply a higher risk of mortality, especially if there are other risk factors associated, such as hypertension, obesity, diabetes, respiratory disease. Then, should I interrupt the immunosuppressant medication for my skin disease? No. The preventive suspension of this kind of medication is not recommended, for the risk of aggravation of the underlying disease, especially when decided autonomously, without previously consulting the attending doctor. This medication should only be interrupted, if you have a confirmed infection by COVID-19. What can I really do to prevent this infection by COVID-19? You should be extra careful in what concerns the social isolation measures; Avoid as much as possible to go out and the contact with other people (stay at home); Request your physician a declaration attesting your special need of isolation, in case this proves useful in professional context. And do not take any decision concerning your skin disease or medication, without consulting your dermatologist. In Hospital da Luz network, there are dermatologists available via video consultation, phone consultation and face to face consultation, whenever necessary. Your safety is our priority. Author : Diogo Martins Matos Meet the Dermatology team of Hospital da Luz network. Click here for more information and advice of Hospital da Luz about the novel coronavírus COVID-19 epidemic . The content published in the Health Guide is intended for the general public and is provided for informational and educational purposes only. It does not replace individual medical assessment, diagnosis, or personalized clinical advice from a qualified healthcare professional. The content is produced or reviewed by physicians and other healthcare professionals at Hospital da Luz and is based on the knowledge available at the time of publication or the most recent update, as indicated at the beginning of each item.
