Respiratory infections and psoriasis: Relationship and clinical aspects. Case report

Respiratory infections are among the most common infectious diseases. The influenza epidemic and the coronavirus pandemic have demonstrated how quickly respiratory diseases can spread, causing serious social and economic consequences. Respiratory infections have multiple effects on various parts of the immune system; they can aggravate chronic diseases and contribute to the exacerbation or onset of autoimmune diseases, including skin conditions. Any infectious process activates the immune system, triggering an inflammatory response. In autoimmune diseases, such as psoriasis, the immune system is already overactive, and additional stimulation can lead to increased inflammation in the skin and exacerbation of symptoms. Induction of psoriasis guttata was previously described only by a tonsil infection caused by Streptococcus pyogenes. Currently, evidence has been accumulated on the effect of various viral infections, including SARS-CoV-2, on the course of psoriasis. Cases of the onset of psoriasis guttata and common plaque psoriasis, which is resistant to topical therapy after coronavirus infection, have been reported. A clinically significant problem is the exacerbation of psoriasis and its transformation into more severe and resistant forms. Given the presence of comorbidities in most patients, it is necessary to develop an individual approach to achieve the key goals of a modern therapeutic approach – its maximum effectiveness and safety. The article presents a literature review and a clinical case demonstrating the torpid course of psoriasis with onset after a coronavirus infection.