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Health and Quality of Life Outcomes
Published in: Health and Quality of Life Outcomes 1/2010

Open Access 01-12-2010 | Research

Quality of life and life circumstances in German myasthenia gravis patients

Authors: Sabine Twork, Susanne Wiesmeth, Jörg Klewer, Dieter Pöhlau, Joachim Kugler

Published in: Health and Quality of Life Outcomes | Issue 1/2010

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Abstract

Background

Myasthenia gravis (MG) is a chronic neuromuscular disease. Advances in medical therapy have continuously increased the life expectancy of MG patients, without definitively curing the disease. To analyze life circumstances and quality of life (QoL), a large German MG cohort was investigated.

Methods and Sample

In cooperation with the German Myasthenia Association, 2,150 patients with confirmed MG were asked to respond to a mailed questionnaire. The standardized questions related to demographic data, impairments, therapeutic course, use of complementary therapies, illness-related costs, and quality of life (SF-36). In total, 1,518 patients participated, yielding a response rate of 70.6%. The average age was 56.7 years, and the proportion of females 58.6%.

Results

Despite receiving recommended therapy, many patients still suffered from MG-related impairments. In particular, mobility and mental well-being were reduced; moreover, quality of life was markedly reduced. Stepwise linear regression analysis revealed illness stability, impairments, mental conditions, comorbid diseases, and employment to be determinants of QoL.

Conclusion

Results indicate that despite prolonged life expectancy among MG patients, health-related quality of life is low. This outcome resulted mainly from impaired mobility and depression. Physical and mental well-being might be improved by additional therapy options. Additionally, health care resources could be used more efficiently in these patients.
Appendix
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Metadata
Title
Quality of life and life circumstances in German myasthenia gravis patients
Authors
Sabine Twork
Susanne Wiesmeth
Jörg Klewer
Dieter Pöhlau
Joachim Kugler
Publication date
01-12-2010
Publisher
BioMed Central
Published in
Health and Quality of Life Outcomes / Issue 1/2010
Electronic ISSN: 1477-7525
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1186/1477-7525-8-129

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