Loss of Work Productivity and Quality of Life in Patients With Autoimmune Bullous Dermatoses

Abstract

Background: Little is known about quality of life and work productivity in autoimmune bullous dermatoses (AIBDs). Objective: To determine the impact of AIBDs on quality of life and work productivity. Methods: An observational cross-sectional study took place between February and May 2013 at an AIBD tertiary referral centre. Ninety-four patients were included. All participants completed the Dermatology Life Quality Index and the Work Productivity and Activity Impairment–Specific Health Problem questionnaires. Results: Responders to treatment had less impairment ( P < .001) than nonresponders. Patients with severe AIBD had significantly more impairment that those with mild ( P < .001) and moderate ( P = .002) AIBD. Greater impairment was associated with higher percentage of work missed. Those with a higher Dermatology Life Quality Index score had greater work impairment and overall activity impairment ( P = .041, P = .024). Nonresponders had increased impairment while working ( P < .001), overall work impairment ( P < .001), and activity impairment ( P < .001). Severely affected patients had worse impairment in all Work Productivity and Activity Impairment Questionnaire domains. Conclusions: AIBD has the potential to be a large burden on ability to work and quality of life. Larger studies are needed to clarify how these domains change over time and whether or not they improve with treatment.