HS evaluated with the SF-36 can be a very useful additional outcome criterion in clinical studies with pemphigus. The management of the disease must take into account its impact on various aspects of life of the patient.
Alopecia areata is not painful or life-threatening, but its aesthetic repercussions can lead to profound changes in patients' psychological status and relationships. The psycho-logical status and personality traits of 73 patients and 73 controls were evaluated with the Minnesota Multi-phasic Personality Inventory (MMPI-2). Analysis of the MMPI-2 profile showed that scores for some scales (i.e. Depression, Anxiety, Family relationships) were higher for patients with alopecia areata than for controls. Patients with alopecia appeared to experience more depressive, hysterical and anxiety feelings, have more hypo-chondriac tendencies, and to be more in conflict with their social environment. In order to provide more effective management, the psychological status of patients with alopecia areata should be evaluated in dermatological settings.
This study suggested that psychosocial issues are quite relevant in patients with SS and underscored the need for a biopsychosocial approach to the clinical management of these patients. Timely detection of psychosocial difficulties and appropriate psychological or psychiatric intervention may represent important steps toward better adherence to medical treatment and improved psychological well-being and quality of life.
Evidence continues to suggest that patients with cancer require more information about their disease and its consequences. To evaluate the information needs of patients with advanced melanoma compared to patients with other malignancies, a cross-sectional study was conducted on 221 unselected patients from the oncology department of a dermatologic hospital In Italy. Patients completed the Edmonton Symptom Assessment System and the Need Evaluation Questionnaire, two standardized tools for symptoms and psychosocial needs assessment. Results highlight that patients with advanced melanoma have, in general, a higher need for information compared to patients with other cancers, even if they report fewer symptoms. Future studies on the needs of patients with melanoma may contribute to tailored and more satisfactory patient-centered care. Recommendations for clinical practice include that particular attention should be paid by the oncology team to the need for a strong therapeutic relationship.
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