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Patients experiences when receiving diagnosis of multiple sclerosis: A qualitative systematic review
Shafigh Mehraban1, Bahman Bahmani1, Soliman Ahmad Boukani2
1Department of Counselling, University of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
Background:
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a neurological disease in which the myelin lining the central nervous system is damaged. The complex and unpredictable nature of MS disease makes the diagnosis process more difficult for the patient. The aim of this study was to review the lived experiences of patients with multiple sclerosis when receiving the diagnosis.
Methods:
We followed the guidelines of the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews (PRISMA) statement. A systematic search was performed using four databases including PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and psych info on April 2022.
Results:
We found 537 articles. After Applying relevant exclusion criteria removing duplicate and irrelevant articles, 13 studies were included in our systematic review after the abstract and full-text screening. Our findings collected data from 10 sub-themes in the following 3 themes to capture patients' experiences after receiving the diagnosis. These included: Emotional reactions to receiving the diagnosis; Communication with health professionals and knowledge about MS and Fear of being different.
Conclusion:
It is important to understand patients' experiences with the disease and identifying problems to help and support families, patients, and health care personnel's. Therefore, it is necessary to design or implement therapeutic interventions for patients at the time of receiving the diagnosis to reduce psychological problems.
Insights
Receiving a multiple sclerosis (MS) diagnosis is challenging. Patients experience emotional reactions, communication difficulties, and fear of being different, highlighting the need for targeted support.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Psychology
Background:
- Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a central nervous system disease impacting myelin.
- The unpredictable nature of MS complicates diagnosis and patient experience.
Approach:
- Systematic review adhering to PRISMA guidelines.
- Comprehensive search across PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and PsycINFO databases.
- Inclusion of 13 studies after rigorous screening of 537 articles.
Key Points:
- Patients reported significant emotional reactions upon diagnosis.
- Communication with healthcare professionals and MS knowledge influenced patient experience.
- Fear of social stigma and 'being different' emerged as a key concern.
Conclusions:
- Understanding patient experiences is crucial for effective support systems.
- Interventions at diagnosis can mitigate psychological distress for MS patients.
- Support for patients, families, and healthcare providers is essential.
