Influence of Childhood Scleroderma on Physical Function and Quality of Life

• DOI: 10.3899/jrheum.100447
• Publication Date: 2010-11-02T03:53:16Z
• Authors: EILEEN M. BAILDAM; HOLLY ENNIS; HELEN E. FOSTER; LINDSAY SHAW; ALICE S.E. CHIENG; JANE KELLY; ARIANE L. HERRICK; HELEN L. RICHARDS
• Keywords: Scleroderma (fungus); Cross-sectional study; Localized Scleroderma

Objective. There have been few studies of quality life in childhood scleroderma and these focused predominantly on self-perception the influence skin lesions. Our cross-sectional study aimed to describe physical function relation clinical demographic measures. Methods. Children with either localized or systemic sclerosis (SSc) attending pediatric rheumatology clinics, together their parents guardians, were asked complete a set 4 validated Clinical data provided by consultant rheumatologists. Results. In total, 28 children parents/guardians participated (68% female, median age 13 yrs; 86% scleroderma, 14% SSc). The Child Health Assessment Questionnaire (CHAQ) score was 0.1 (range 0–3, 0 indicating no impairment), Dermatology Life Quality Index (CDLQI) 5 0–30, (CQOL) 26 0–105, impairment). Family activity, measured (CHQ-PF50), also moderately impaired 83 (0–100, 100 Conclusion. Scleroderma had only moderate effect as instruments. Although small number reported greater impairment, this is an encouraging finding, given its potential disfiguring debilitating effects.