The impact of herpes zoster and post-herpetic neuralgia on quality of life: patient-reported outcomes in six European countries

• DOI: 10.1007/s10389-011-0481-8
• Publication Date: 2011-12-29T13:27:16Z
• Authors: Kati Lukas; Alexander Edte; Isabelle Bertrand
• Keywords: 03 medical and health sciences; 0302 clinical medicine; Public Health, Environmental and Occupational Health; Original Article; 16. Peace & justice; 3. Good health

AIM: To investigate the impact of an entire episode herpes zoster (HZ) or post-herpetic neuralgia (PHN) on individual's quality life (QoL). SUBJECTS AND METHODS: Individuals aged ≥50 years with painful HZ in previous 5 were identified across six European countries (Spain, Portugal, The Netherlands, Belgium, Sweden and Switzerland). They participated a survey comprising bespoke questions to evaluate their HZ/PHN episode. RESULTS: A total 1,005 individuals participated, 874 (87%) having had HZ, 13% PHN. Generally, pain QoL outcomes similar irrespective when was diagnosed (≤12 versus 13-60 months) age (50-59 ≥60 years). Mean scores significantly higher those PHN both average (7.2 6.4) at worst (8.3 7.4). patients' perception overall QoL, 37% reporting high (HZ: 19%). Pain restrictions following domains impacted respondents' QoL: enjoyment (level impact, 31%), general activity (29%), mood (25%), sleep (8%) walking ability (8%), than HZ. Sleep area affected. CONCLUSION: particularly PHN, is associated considerable levels that have significant participants countries.