Google's AI gave the response, below, about the connection between emphysema and skin issues. I can't verify the correctness, but maybe the skin condition is related to the emphysema. Maybe you can take something to treat the inflammation. I suggest asking also a dermatologist. Best of luck!
From Google AI: Emphysema, a type of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), can contribute to accelerated skin aging and potentially lead to skin peeling in some individuals. While emphysema doesn't directly cause skin peeling in the sense of a direct medical consequence, the underlying conditions and associated health issues can affect skin health.
Here's a more detailed explanation:
Accelerated Skin Aging:
Emphysema, particularly in smokers, is linked to accelerated skin aging due to the damaging effects of smoking and the systemic inflammation associated with the disease. Loss of skin elasticity, a natural part of aging, is further exacerbated in emphysema patients.
Skin Condition and Systemic Inflammation:
COPD, which includes emphysema, is often associated with systemic inflammation. This can impact various bodily functions, including skin health, and potentially lead to skin issues.
Skin Peeling:
While emphysema itself doesn't cause skin peeling in a direct sense, the systemic effects, including inflammation and dehydration, can contribute to skin dryness and flaking.
Subcutaneous Emphysema:
In a rare instance, subcutaneous emphysema (air trapped under the skin) can cause a crackling sensation and swelling, which might be mistaken for skin peeling in some cases. This is a distinct condition from the skin aging effects of emphysema.
Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency:
This genetic condition can cause emphysema and may also have cutaneous manifestations, including recurrent ulcerative panniculitis (inflammation of subcutaneous fat) that can resemble skin peeling.
In summary, while emphysema doesn't directly cause skin peeling, the disease's effects on skin elasticity, systemic inflammation, and potentially related conditions can contribute to skin dryness, flaking, and other skin issues that might be mistaken for peeling