Assessment of dermatological life quality in patients with cutaneous diseases at Universitas Academic Hospital

Abstract

Background: Dermatological conditions significantly impact quality of life (QoL). This cross-sectional study aimed to assess this impact as part of a comprehensive care approach.

Methods: A cross-sectional analytical study was conducted at a tertiary hospital’s dermatology outpatient department from January 2023 to March 2023. Eligible patients were recruited, and data on demographics, clinical diagnoses and Dermatological Life Quality Index (DLQI) scores were collected.

Results: The study included 200 participants (median age: 39 years, range: 18–86). Females comprised 58%, while males were significantly older (median: 53 vs 35 years, p < 0.001). A significant difference was found between the 10 most common diagnoses and DLQI scores (p < 0.05, Kruskal–Wallis test). The top diagnoses were eczema (21%), cutaneous malignancy (13%) and acne/rosacea (11%). Hidradenitis suppurativa had the highest DLQI scores, followed by lupus and urticaria.

Conclusion: This study highlights the significant burden of skin diseases on QoL, with hidradenitis suppurativa showing the greatest impact. Findings underscore the need for patient-centred dermatological care addressing both physical and psychological well-being.

Contribution: This study contributes to dermatology research in line with the Journal of the Colleges of Medicine of South Africa (JCMSA) mission to encourage multidisciplinary publications.