Assessing quality of life in Behçet's disease: a systematic review

Abstract

Objective. The assessment of quality of life (QoL) in Behçet's disease (BD) patients has been a surrogate of disease outcomes, but a wider impact on the patient's lifestyle has not been considered. This systematic review aims to provide an overview of the existing tools specifically adopted to explore the QoL in BD patients. Methods. A systematic literature review was conducted using 2 electronic databases, according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. A combination of BD and QoLrelated search terms were used. All articles were screened by 3 independent reviewers for title, abstract and full text level. Studies investigating QoL in BD patients were included. Results. 64 papers of 497 records were retained. Data about 7,449 patients with a BD diagnosis and QoL evaluation were collected. 47 different tools to evaluate QoL were detected. The mean number of tools adopted in each study was 2.14±1.34. General QoL and psychological and social impact were investigated in 68.75% and 54.69% respectively. The correlation with disease activity was investigated in 71.86%. Conclusion. The assessment of QoL in BD patients may provide a fundamental measurement for health to evaluate the outcome of interventions for BD patients. The adoption of a single validated QoL tool, developed including the BD patient's perspective, may provide an accurate and effective assessment, ensure the comparison within different cohorts, and set standardised values to define QoL level in BD patients.

Behçet’s Disease, Pathogenesis, Clinical Features, and Treatment Approaches: A Comprehensive Review

“…Avoiding triggers, whenever known, can also help prevent flare-ups. Regular dental hygiene can help avoid oral ulcers, and protection from sun and heat might help prevent skin lesions [75,76]. Regular followup with healthcare providers ensures appropriate management and prompt treatment of flare-ups [77][78][79][80].…”

“…The chronic and potentially disabling nature of Behçet's disease also brings pain specialists and mental health professionals to the fore, providing much-needed pain and psychological support [73]. Nurses, physical therapists, and patient educators are integral members of the care team, also in keeping a watchful eye on the patient's overall status, including any side effects from the medication [76].…”

Thoughts and Experiences of Behçet Disease From Participants on a Reddit Subforum: Qualitative Online Community Analysis

“…Studies have shown the significant impact of BD on the quality of life and life satisfaction of patients [20][21][22][23][24][25]. Patients' quality of life and perceptions of wellness are becoming increasingly acknowledged as end points and targeted outcomes in studies Li & Yacyshyn JMIR FORMATIVE RESEARCH XSL • FO RenderX [26]. The illness perception of patients can also play a significant role in the relationship between symptom severity and perceived pain or energy level [27].…”

Behçet's yndrome: one year in review 2023

“…anxiety occur more frequently in BS patients than in the general population (80)(81)(82). Young patients and those with low socio-economic status are more severely affected (80).…”