Systemic lupus erythematosus and varicella-like rash following COVID-19 in a previously healthy patient.

Emerging reports show that COVID-19 may lead to autoimmune and autoinflammatory diseases. However, COVID-19 triggered systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) has never been reported to our knowledge. COVID-19 also has associated cutaneous manifestations. Here we present a case of SLE with antiphospholipid antibody syndrome in a previously healthy COVID-19 patient, who subsequently developped a varicella-like exanthem on the trunk. The disease resulted in death of the patient. The pathophysiological mechanisms resulting in overlapping disorders in our patient remain unknown, adding to the growing mystery of this virus and raising questions about the nature of its link with cutaneous, autoimmune and autoinflammatory manifestations. Sharing the images of this case may benefit physicians dealing with similar patients during this pandemic. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.