Localised swelling at sites of dermal filler injections following administration of Covid-19 vaccines: a systematic review.

Abstract

Introduction: Localised swelling at sites of filler injections has been reported in the Moderna mRNA-1273 coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccine trial.

Methods: We conducted a review of the existing data and literature on the potential pathophysiology for this adverse event and its potential management.

Results: Data from the Moderna and Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine Phase 3 trial and one case series were available. Three out of 30,400 subjects developed possible filler reaction in the Moderna trial. Two other cases were reported after emergency use authorisation. Reactions occurred at a mean of 1.4 days post-vaccination. Fillers were injected at a mean of 14.1 months before vaccination. Areas involved included lips, infraorbital areas and tear troughs. Treatment included observation, corticosteroids, antihistamine, hyaluronidase and 5-fluorouracil.

Conclusion: Rare, self-limiting adverse reactions to dermal fillers have been reported following COVID-19 vaccination. Clinicians should be aware of this clinical phenomenon and its management, as vaccination is carried out globally.