:
Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) has a profound impact on quality of life.
Objective:
The objective of this study was to explore the quality of life among Egyptian SLE patients
and to assess its relationships with demographic and clinical features.
Methods:
One hundred sixty-four SLE patients were recruited for this study. Demographic information;
clinical parameters; disease activity, as evaluated by the systemic lupus erythematosus Disease
Activity Index; and organ damage, as assessed by the systemic lupus international Collaborative
Clinics/American College of Rheumatology Damage Index, were reported. Quality of life was
assessed with a quality of life questionnaire specifically designed for patients with systemic lupus
erythematosus; the questions are grouped in the following six domains: physical function, sociooccupational
activities, symptoms, treatment, mood, and self-image. Higher values indicate poorer
quality of life.
Conclusion:
Poor quality of life among Egyptian SLE patients and disease activity are strongly related
to impaired lifestyles in these patients.