A Cross-Sectional Analysis of Psychological and Dermatologic Manifestations Post-February 6 Earthquakes in Dermatology Patients

January 2026 in “ Annals of Dermatology ”

Şule Gençoğlu, Neslihan Cansel

telogen effluvium alopecia areata psoriasis pruritus urticaria

Studysummary This study found high levels of anxiety, depression, and PTSD in dermatology patients one year after the February 6, 2023, earthquakes in Türkiye, with specific skin conditions like telogen effluvium and alopecia areata being more prevalent among those with psychological distress.

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This study examined the psychological and dermatological effects on 673 dermatology patients one year after the February 6, 2023 earthquakes in Trkiye. It found high levels of anxiety (44.0%), depression (69.2%), and PTSD (15.8%) among participants. Common skin conditions included telogen effluvium (18.7%), pruritus (16.0%), and urticaria (10.1%). Telogen effluvium was notably associated with anxiety and PTSD, while alopecia areata and psoriasis were linked to anxiety and depression. Factors such as female sex, prior psychiatric illness, and higher education were associated with PTSD. The study highlights the need for integrated dermatologic and mental health care post-disaster.

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