Evaluation of the Quality of Life and the Demographic and Clinical Characteristics of Patients With Pemphigus With Oral Mucosal İnvolvement: A Multicenter Observational Study


Polat A. K., Mülayim M. K., Gür T. F., Acar A., Bozca B. C., Ceylan C., ...Daha Fazla

Dermatology Practical and Conceptual, cilt.14, sa.2, 2024 (SCI-Expanded) identifier

  • Yayın Türü: Makale / Tam Makale
  • Cilt numarası: 14 Sayı: 2
  • Basım Tarihi: 2024
  • Doi Numarası: 10.5826/dpc.1402a99
  • Dergi Adı: Dermatology Practical and Conceptual
  • Derginin Tarandığı İndeksler: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Scopus, Directory of Open Access Journals
  • Anahtar Kelimeler: oral health, oral mucosa, pemphigus, quality of life
  • Akdeniz Üniversitesi Adresli: Evet

Özet

Introduction: Pemphigus vulgaris (PV) is an autoimmune disease primarily affecting the oral mucosa. Objectives: This study aimed to determine the demographic, clinical and treatment characteristics of PV patients with oral mucosal involvement and to assess the impact on their quality of life. Methods: We conducted a prospective observational study among 106 patients diagnosed with PV and presenting oral mucosal involvement. Demographic data, clinical and treatment characteristics, and quality of life questionnaires were recorded. Results: The study included 106 patients, 55 (51.89%) were male and there was a predominance of the mucocutaneous subtype in 83 individuals (78.38%). Oral mucosa was the initial site of manifestation in 44 patients (41.51%). Bilateral buccal mucosa was the most frequently affected site. The predominant symptom reported was a burning sensation, noted in 91 patients (85.85%). Oral mucosal examination revealed erosions in 85.85% of the patients. Systemic steroids were the most commonly administered treatment, and rituximab was used in 18 patients (16.98%). A positive and significant correlation was found between pemphigus severity and Oral Health Impact Profile-14, Dermatology Life Quality Index and Dermatological Quality of Life Scale scores (P < 0.05). The presence of superficial ulcers, flaccid bullae, lesion diameter ≥1 cm, and >10 lesions were factors that markedly diminished quality of life. Complete response to treatment was noted in all patients administered rituximab. Conclusions: The most common area of involvement was bilateral buccal mucosa, and the severity of PV closely correlated with a decline in quality of life measures. These results highlight the need for careful clinical oversight of PV, taking into account its effects on patients quality of life.