Quality of life index evaluation in pemphigus vulgaris patients of Pakistan

Abstract

Background Pemphigus vulgaris is an immunobullous disorder characterized clinically by recurrent painful ulcerations in the mucus membranes and erosive blisters all over the body.  Objective The aim of this study was to evaluate quality-of-life and mental health status in Pakistani patients suffering fom pemphigus vulgaris.  Methods A total of 40 patients with pemphigus were recruited from outpatient and indoor of Dermatology Unit-1, Jinnah hospital Lahore and Sir Ganga Ram hospital Lahore, from November, 2018 to June, 2019.  They were assessed clinically, and then interviewed using urdu version of Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI) questionnaire.  Results Out of the 40 patients, there were 17 male and 23 female patients. No statistical correlation was found between demographic variables (age, sex, education level, rural/urban) and DLQI scores. However, there was positive correlation between marital status and DLQI score(P=0.012) and negative correlation with chronicity of disease(P=0.018). The average DLQI score was 14±7. Symptoms and embarrassment caused by disease were the most effected DLQI variables while sex life, sports and work were least effected.  Conclusion DLQI is important in deciding treatment regimen especially in young, unmarried and those with recent symptoms. It can alert the physician regarding depression and anxiety in a patient. Quality of life can thus be greatly improved.