Quality of Life (Dermatology Life Quality Index and Family Dermatology Life Quality Index) in Patients with Autoimmune Bullous Disorders-A Cross-Sectional Study.

Background

Autoimmune bullous diseases (AIBD) are chronic mucocutaneous diseases causing a substantial negative impact on the quality of life (QoL) of patients and their caregivers.

Aim

AND

Objectives

To study the impact of AIBD and identify the various factors contributing to the decreased QoL of patients and caregivers. PATIENTS AND

Methods

The study included 65 patients with pemphigus vulgaris or bullous pemphigoid and their caregivers. QoL was assessed using the dermatology life quality index (DLQI) and family dermatology life quality index (FDLQI) questionnaires. The mean life quality index scores were analyzed statistically to identify key factors contributing to the decline in QoL.

Results

DLQI score was 13.2 ± 7.1 (mean ± standard deviation) and higher scores were seen if patient had poor education levels ( P = 0.030), active phase of disease ( P < 0.001), severe disease ( P < 0.001), and a fewer (0 to 3) relapses ( P = 0.005). Mean FDLQI score was 13.6 ± 6.4. Patient characteristics that significantly impaired caregiver's QoL included poor education levels of the patient ( P = 0.041), presence of psychological conditions ( P = 0.010), active disease phase ( P = 0.002), and severe disease ( P < 0.001).

Limitations

We did not use disease-specific tools like autoimmune bullous disease quality of life (ABQOL) in assessing QoL. We recognize the potential for interviewer bias in patients requiring translation. The study did not assess the influence of caregiver's sociodemographic factors on the QoL.

Conclusion

AIBD significantly affects the QoL of patients and their caregivers. It is essential to educate, counsel, and provide adequate psychosocial support to the patient and their caregivers.