Quality of life index in autoimmune bullous dermatosis patients

Abstract

BACKGROUNDAutoimmune bullous dermatoses are complex diseases triggered by autoantibodies action against epidermal antigens or the dermoepidermal junction. Blisters and vesicles that evolve with erosion areas characterize them. Although rare, they present high morbidity, affecting the quality of life of patients.OBJECTIVESTo assess the magnitude of autoimmune bullous dermatoses on life quality of patients treated in a public university service in countryside of Brazil.METHODSThis cross-sectional study was based on an inquiry with autoimmune bullous dermatoses patients assisted at outpatient university referral service. Elements related to quality of life were evaluated by the Dermatology Life Quality Index, as well as clinical and demographic data.RESULTSThe study evaluated 43 patients with pemphigus foliaceus, 32 with pemphigus vulgaris, 6 with bullous pemphigoid and 3 with dermatitis herpetiformis. The average age was 48 ± 16 years and 34 (40%) were female. The median score (p25-p75) of the Dermatology Life Quality Index was 16 (9-19), classified as "severe impairment" of life quality, in which the greater impact was related to symptoms and feelings, daily and leisure activities.CONCLUSIONSAutoimmune bullous dermatoses inflict severe impairment of quality of life for patients followed by a public outpatient clinic in the countryside of Brazil.

The burden of common skin diseases assessed with the EQ5D™: a European multicentre study in 13 countries

“…Further investigation of HRQoL in this group is necessary . There is little information on HRQoL in bullous diseases: one study reported severe impairment of life quality, which is consistent with our findings …”

“…[29][30][31] There is little information on HRQoL in bullous diseases: one study reported severe impairment of life quality, which is consistent with our findings. 32 Patients with pruritus, urticaria and prurigo had low EQ-VAS and adjusted EQ-VAS scores, similar to those with psoriasis, AD and connective tissue diseases. OR for pain/discomfort and depression/anxiety was 3-8-fold.…”

Quality of life, depression, anxiety and loneliness in patients with bullous pemphigoid. A case control study

“…It may be localized to one area, or widespread on the trunk and proximal limbs. 1,3 BP is likely to have psychological and social implications for the patient since it is a chronic condition. Both clinical symptoms and the effects of treatment can have a strong impact on physical and emotional status.…”

Diagnostic patterns and delays in autoimmune blistering diseases of the mouth: A cross‐sectional study

“…The diagnosis of AIBD affecting the mouth is often delayed because of the uncommon nature of these diseases, the non‐specific clinical presentations, and the unfamiliarity of healthcare providers with oral mucosal diseases (Sarumathi, Saravanakumar, Datta, & Nagarathnam, ; Scully et al., ; Sirois et al., ). Importantly, delays in diagnosis and management of AIBD can adversely affect disease progression, treatment response and prognosis resulting in patient suffering, increased treatment duration and cost, and reduced productivity and quality of life (Fitzpatrick & Newcomer, ; Heelan, Mahar, Walsh, & Shear, ; Penha, Farat, Miot, & Barraviera, ; Sirois et al., ).…”