Age-related changes in patients with upper limb thalidomide embryopathy in the United Kingdom

Abstract

We report the  long-term upper limb disability, health-related quality of life (HRQoL), functional impairment, self-perception of appearance and prevalence of neuropathic pain in patients with upper limb thalidomide embryopathy in the United Kingdom. One-hundred and twenty-seven patients responded to our electronic questionnaire. Mean Quick Version of the Disabilities of Arm, Shoulder, and Hand score was 54.3 (SD 22.6). Median EuroQoL 5-Dimension 5-Likert index, Work and Social Adjustment Scale, Derriford Appearance Scale 24 and Neuropathic Pain Scale were 0.6 (IQR 0.4 to 0.7), 15.5 (IQR 8.0 to 23.5), 35.5 (IQR 28.0 to 50.5), and −0.8 (IQR −1.4 to 0.8), respectively. Thirty-three patients (26%) reported neuropathic pain. Finger changes associated with radial longitudinal deficiency were an independent predictor of more severe upper limb disability. Eighty-nine patients (70%) reported deteriorating HRQoL with increasing age. Patients with upper limb thalidomide embryopathy experience age-related worsening of symptoms and function, highlighting the need for ongoing specialist care and support. Level of evidence: IV