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Fatigue: an overlooked determinant of physical function in scleroderma
S B Sandusky1, L McGuire, M T Smith
1Department of Psychology, University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC), Baltimore, MD 21250, USA.
Rheumatology (Oxford, England)
|December 25, 2008
Summary
Fatigue is highly prevalent in scleroderma patients, significantly impacting physical functioning. Pain and fatigue are key factors affecting physical function, highlighting the need for targeted interventions.
Area of Science:
- Rheumatology
- Clinical Medicine
- Patient Outcomes
Background:
- Scleroderma is a chronic autoimmune disease characterized by skin and organ fibrosis.
- Fatigue is a common and debilitating symptom in scleroderma, affecting quality of life.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the frequency and correlates of fatigue in scleroderma patients.
- To assess the impact of fatigue on physical and social functioning.
- To investigate if fatigue mediates the relationship between pain and physical function.
Main Methods:
- 107 scleroderma patients completed validated questionnaires on fatigue, sleep, pain, depression, and functioning.
- Patients were assessed at an academic scleroderma specialty center.
- Clinical data including disease subtype was collected.
Main Results:
- 76% of scleroderma patients reported fatigue; 61% identified it as a top distressing symptom.
- Higher pain, depression, and poorer functioning correlated with increased fatigue.
- Fatigue significantly correlated with physical functioning, but not social functioning, after controlling for covariates. Pain inclusion negated fatigue's predictive role.
Conclusions:
- Fatigue is a prevalent issue in scleroderma, impacting physical function.
- Pain and fatigue are significant determinants of physical functioning in both limited and diffuse scleroderma subtypes.
- Further research should explore pain management's effect on fatigue and identify other fatigue causes to enhance patient quality of life.
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