Patient-reported outcome measures in a population of medically indigent patients with systemic lupus erythematosus in Puerto Rico

Self-concept and body image of people living with lupus: A systematic review

AIM

To summarize existing evidence regarding body image in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus, with the following considerations: (a) the perceptions patients have of their body changes; (b) how patients cope with changes in their body; (c) and what their perceptions are of body changes.

METHOD

A systematic review of literature integrating quantitative and qualitative studies. We searched databases (PubMed, CINAHL, Embase, SCOPUS, the Web of Science, Medline, Medline Complete, and Academic Search Premier) and publications from 2010 to 2020 with "Systemic Lupus Erythematosus" AND "Self-Concept" OR "Body Image" AND "Woman" as medical subheading terms. The studies included were subjected to a thematic content analysis, which allowed subjective interpretation of data through a systematic classification process for coding themes or patterns.

RESULTS

We identified 647 studies, of which 22 were analyzed in this study. Our results indicate that changes in the body image of people with lupus and their perception are issues that must be treated as characteristics of the disease; therefore, they need to receive the same attention as is given to physical disabilities and pain. The analysis identified 3 thematic categories: (a) depression and anxiety associated with body changes (hair loss, weight gain); (b) body image reflecting the disease; and (c) confrontations and interventions to promote acceptance and adaptation to the new image.

CONCLUSIONS

The dimensions of self-concept and body image are essential for assessing the quality of life of individuals with lupus. The formation of a adjusted self-concept can be managed by health professionals supporting these people.

Socioeconomic consequences of systemic lupus erythematosus

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

The present review addresses recent literature investigating the socioeconomic consequences of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). We highlight the latest updates on health disparities affecting the SLE population, the direct and indirect economic costs of the disease, and less quantifiable costs such as reduced health-related quality of life (HRQoL).

RECENT FINDINGS

Health disparities continue to exist among socially disadvantaged populations, including African Americans, Hispanics, and patients with decreased educational attainment and in poverty. Direct and indirect costs are substantial. Recent work provides updated cost estimates for patients with SLE outside of North America, including those in developing countries. Previous research has largely focused on costs of the general SLE population and those with renal manifestations or active SLE, whereas recent research addresses special populations such as hospitalized and pregnant patients and glucocorticoid users. Patients with SLE and their caregivers experience a substantially reduced HRQoL.

SUMMARY

SLE is a costly disease that disproportionately affects disadvantaged populations. Future economic studies should measure not only direct costs, but also incorporate indirect costs and the HRQoL of both patients with SLE and their caregivers. All these components are essential to provide a comprehensive assessment of the socioeconomic consequences of SLE and an appreciation of the potential impact of novel therapies.