Differences in quality of life in patients with cutaneous lupus erythematosus with varying income levels

Adrienne Joseph, Smriti Prasad, Linda S. Hynan, Mary Margaret Chren, Benjamin Chong

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

5 Scopus citations

Abstract

Background: Cutaneous lupus erythematosus (CLE) is an autoimmune photosensitive skin condition. The impact of income on quality of life has been incompletely characterized in CLE. Objectives: We aimed to assess how annual income affects quality of life among CLE patients. Methods: In this cross-sectional study of 238 patients with CLE, relationships between predictor variables including annual income and each SKINDEX-29 + 3 subdomain were identified using univariate and multivariable analyses. In addition, answers to individual SKINDEX-29 + 3 questions were compared across income groups. Clinical factors in patients making less than <10,000 USD (N = 85) with worse SKINDEX-29 + 3 scores were also identified by univariate and multivariable analyses. Results: Patients making <10,000 USD annually experienced worse quality of life across multiple SKINDEX-29 + 3 subdomains (p < 0.05). These patients specifically experienced poorer quality of life relating to social isolation and self-consciousness. (p < 0.001). Among those making <10,000 USD, predictors for worse quality of life included females, smokers, and those with higher skin disease activity were identified (p < 0.05). Limitations: This is a single center study. Income was also self-reported and could not be verified. Conclusions: Lower income is related to poorer quality of life in patients with CLE. Specifically, patients experience limitations regarding social isolation and self-consciousness.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)972-980
Number of pages9
JournalLupus
Volume30
Issue number6
DOIs
StatePublished - May 2021

Keywords

  • Quality of life
  • SKINDEX-29
  • autoimmune skin diseases
  • cutaneous lupus erythematosus
  • rheumatic diseases
  • socioeconomic status

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Rheumatology

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