Document Type : Original Article
Authors
1
Department of Dermatology, El Khazendara General Hospital, Ministry of Health, Cairo, Egypt
2
Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Andrology, Faculty of Medicine, Al-Azhar University, Cairo, Egypt
3
Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine, Al-Azhar University, Cairo, Egypt
Abstract
Background: The course of vitiligo is unpredictable because it is an acquired condition. Clinically, it is indicated by clearly defined depigmented macules that result from malfunction and loss of melanocytes.
Aim of the work: To study electroencephalographic patterns in segmental and non-segmental vitiligo patients to record any changes in the electroencephalographic activity as related to the stress condition of the brain in vitiligo patients, an open randomised study.
Patients and Methods: This was a cross-sectional study that included 30 vitiligo patients considered the patient group as well as another 30 age-matched healthy people considered the control group. EEG was applied once to all participants. EEG recordings were used to quantify brain activity. The new data point of 1.6 Hz was estimated using a linear interpolation between the two discrete data points [1.5 and 2 Hz] with a window length of 2 s and a 0.1 Hz increment.
Results: The most common type of vitiligo was the progressive non-segmental one [93.3%]. The initial lesion appeared more frequently on the face and neck [60%], acral [40%], limb [36.7%], and trunk [26.7%]. The frequency of EEG waves was significantly higher in the patients’ group than in the control group [p<0.001]. Alpha, C3, 8.0–12.0 Hz, alpha, C4, 8.0–12.0 Hz, beta 2, C3, 20.0–34.0 Hz, and beta 2 waves, C4.20.0–34.0 Hz, were significantly higher in the patient’s group [P<0.001]. There were significant differences observed in the beta 1 waves [C3 and C4] [p = 0.0385 and 0.0148, respectively].
Conclusion: The high frequency of alpha and beta waves indicates the presence of stress among vitiligo patients. Stress from metabolic and psychological factors may affect vitiligo patients' susceptibility to the disease's progression. Additional research is needed on lifestyle elements that affect vitiligo, including health behaviors, mental makeup, and the effect of social life on individuals and groups.
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