The Impact of Skin Disease on Self-Reported Quality of Life and Psychosocial Health in Youth with Cutaneous Lupus Erythematosus

Project Period:
2024-2025

Grant Category:
Small Grant

Disease Area:
Lupus and Related Conditions (SLE/RC)

Mucocutaneous involvement is a common manifestation in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE), affecting up to 85% of patients with childhood-onset SLE (cSLE). Cutaneous manifestations negatively impact quality of life due to irritation, photosensitivity, and altered appearance. Patients with SLE and skin disease are more likely to report anxiety and depression, which results in poor adherence and higher disease activity. Skin disease in SLE disproportionately affects patients of color with more dyspigmentation, scarring and alopecia. We propose to compare the quality of life and mental health among cSLE patients with cutaneous disease and assess the impact of socioeconomic factors on disease activity and outcomes. This study will highlight the effect of cutaneous disease on quality of life in cSLE and is critical in the goal of implementation of more targeted therapies to improve care.

Investigators

Alexandra Theisen, MD, MS

Arkansas Children's Hospital Research Institute

Related Awarded Grants

Disease Area:
Lupus and Related Conditions (SLE/RC)

CARRA Samples for funded LRA Global Team Science Award