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. |