Psoriasis associated with stress following a through-and-through gunshot wound in a military service member: A case report
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BOGOMOLETS NATIONAL MEDICAL UNIVERSITY, KYIV, UKRAINE
Publication date: 2026-06-30
Wiadomości Lekarskie 2026;(6):1436-1442
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ABSTRACT
The paper presents a clinical case of psoriasis that developed in a 23-year-old Ukrainian service member after a combat-related through-and-through gunshot
wound to the lower leg sustained in 2022. The patient had no previous dermatological diseases or family history of psoriasis. Two weeks after the injury, irregular
pink plaques appeared around the damaged skin areas and gradually spread to the lower limbs, trunk, and upper extremities, becoming generalised within two
months. The disease subsequently progressed to severe plaque psoriasis, complicated by nail dystrophy and psoriatic arthritis. By 2026, skin lesions involved
more than 50% of the body surface area (Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI) 25,9) and were associated with a significant impairment in quality of life
(Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI) 16). Persistent psycho-emotional stress related to military service, sleep disturbances, smoking, and poor adherence
to therapy contributed to recurrent exacerbations. Screening revealed clinically significant anxiety, and the patient was referred for psychological evaluation
and support. After referral to a mental health centre and implementation of comprehensive management that included psychological support and improved
adherence to dermatological therapy, gradual improvement in skin condition and quality of life was observed.