Loss of Work Productivity and Quality of Life in Patients With Autoimmune Bullous Dermatoses

Background:Little is known about quality of life and work productivity in autoimmune bullous dermatoses (AIBDs).Objective:To determine the impact of AIBDs on quality of life and work productivity.Methods:An observational cross-sectional study took place between February and May 2013 at an AIBD tertiary referral centre. Ninety-four patients were included. All participants completed the Dermatology Life Quality Index and the Work Productivity and Activity Impairment–Specific Health Problem questionnaires.Results:Responders to treatment had less impairment (P < .001) than nonresponders. Patients with severe AIBD had significantly more impairment that those with mild (P < .001) and moderate (P = .002) AIBD. Greater impairment was associated with higher percentage of work missed. Those with a higher Dermatology Life Quality Index score had greater work impairment and overall activity impairment (P = .041, P = .024). Nonresponders had increased impairment while working (P < .001), overall work impairment (P < ....