Psychological Stress Triggered by Storm Daniel as a Catalyst for Vitiligo Activity : A post -Disaster Clinical Assessment
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.58987/1ynm5y89Keywords:
Vitiligo, Psychological Stress, Natural Disaster, Non-Segmental Vitiligo, Storm DanielAbstract
Vitiligo is a chronic autoimmune disorder in which psychological stress is recognized as an important trigger for disease activity. In September 2023, Storm Daniel caused catastrophic flooding in Derna, Libya, resulting in severe psychological trauma among survivors. This study aimed to assess the impact of disaster-related psychological stress on vitiligo activity among affected patients. A cross-sectional survey-based study was conducted in Derna involving patients with a confirmed diagnosis of vitiligo who experienced the storm. Data regarding disease characteristics, distribution patterns, and self-reported changes in disease activity following the disaster were collected and analyzed. A total of 49 patients participated, of whom 66.7% reported disease progression after the storm. Non-segmental generalized vitiligo showed a significantly higher rate of progression compared to localized and segmental forms (p = 0.003). These findings suggest that severe psychological stress following natural disasters may contribute to increased vitiligo activity, particularly in immunologically active non-segmental forms. Psychological support and close dermatological follow-up should be considered essential components of post-disaster healthcare for patients with vitiligo.
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