Depressive symptomatology and quality of life in patients with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus

Abstract

Chronic diseases imply a radical change in the sufferer’s life and that of his or her family or primary caregivers. Chronic conditions require special care because they markedly alter daily functioning and perception of life. Objective. The present study sought to identify the relationship between quality of life (QOL) and depression in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Method. Two hundred patients from a high-specialty public health institution in México City participated; 172 (84.7%) were women aged 16 to 68 (mean = 33.52, standard deviation = 10.37). Participants had a confirmed diagnosis of SLE, assigned from 1 to 42 years back (mean = 7.71, standard deviation = 6.88). Participants responded to the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) and the Inventory of Quality
of Life and Health (InCaViSa). The study used a correlational-descriptive design with regression analysis to explore the relationships. Results. The main findings showed a high and significant association between depressive symptoms, worries, isolation, and impaired body perception. Other results reflected associations with cognitive impairment, attitude to treatment, poor use of leisure time, small social networks, and general impairment in daily life. The results did not document an association between depressive symptoms in patient-doctor relations or medical dependence. Discussion. Overall, the main findings show a clinically and statistically significant correlation between depressive symptoms and quality of life in LES patients. A deteriorated quality of life likely adds risk to the patient’s daily life and immediate family and friends. Medical treatment and psychological care can significantly help to assess and intervene in patients in the context that a chronic autoimmune diagnosis radically modifies behavioral, cognitive, and emotional
functioning that requires specialized attention.