Managing epidermolysis bullosa during the COVID-19 pandemic: experience and ideals

Abstract The 2019 novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic has tremendously affected health-seeking behaviors. Fear of contracting the disease has been a major factor keeping patients from presenting to hospitals, even when urgent or emergent medical attention is needed. Hospitals limiting staff exposure and capacity to accommodate patients also limit opportunities to seek care. While physical distancing is encouraged to curb infections, this call needs to be tempered with public health education for what constitutes emergencies and urgent medical conditions needing face-to-face attention. Measures to assuage fears among patients and their caregivers to ensure their safety in the hospital or health care setting need to be communicated and executed effectively. Epidermolysis bullosa (EB) is an inherited mechanobullous disorder that is usually stable, but in some patients with underlying comorbidities, close monitoring or face to face management is required . We present our experience and provide recommendations pertinent to EB patients of all subtypes during the COVID-19 crisis.