Medical potential traumatic events and the relationship to mental health in patients with pediatric rheumatic disease

Project Period:
2025 - 2026

Grant Category:
Data Analysis Support Grant

Disease Area:
Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA), Lupus and Related Conditions (SLE/RC), Juvenile Dermatomyositis (JDM)

Chronic pediatric rheumatologic conditions are characterized by flares and remission. They can require (a) complex medication regimens, often administered via injections or intravenously, (b) frequent disease and medication toxicity monitoring via venipuncture, and (c) visits to the hospital or emergency department. Patients may experience these medical events as traumatic. Medical potentially traumatic events (PTEs) can have adverse effects on the psychological well-being of patients with chronic disease. To date, there is limited knowledge about medical PTEs and their effects on patients with chronic pediatric rheumatologic conditions. To address this gap, we will leverage existing data from a large survey project co-developed with patients and caregivers that assessed mental health needs and incorporated trauma date not previously utilized.

Investigators

Aliese Sarkissian, MD, MBOE, MS

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

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