Related Experiment Videos
[Rheumatic diseases. A three-year retrospective study at an internal medicine service]
A M de Sousa1, M A Pereira, E A Pina
1Serviço de Medicina Interna, Hospital Distrital de Faro.
Insights
This study analyzed 117 rheumatic disease patients, finding a 4.2% frequency. Diffuse Connective Tissue Diseases, including Rheumatoid Arthritis and Systemic Lupus Erythematous, were most common.
Area of Science:
- Rheumatology
- Internal Medicine
- Epidemiology
Context:
- Rheumatic diseases pose a significant health burden.
- Understanding their prevalence and characteristics is crucial for healthcare planning.
Purpose:
- To assess the prevalence and patterns of rheumatic diseases in hospitalized patients.
- To analyze demographic and clinical features of rheumatic disease cases.
Summary:
- A retrospective study of 117 patients over three years identified rheumatic diseases in 4.2% of admissions.
- Diffuse Connective Tissue Diseases were most frequent (42.7%), with Rheumatoid Arthritis and Systemic Lupus Erythematous being predominant.
- The study noted a mean patient age of 52.9 years, a female predominance (61%), and a 6.8% proportional mortality rate.
Impact:
- Provides epidemiological data on rheumatic diseases in a specific hospital setting.
- Highlights the significant burden of Diffuse Connective Tissue Diseases, particularly Rheumatoid Arthritis and Systemic Lupus Erythematous.
- Informs clinical practice and resource allocation for rheumatic disease management.
Abstract:
In order to assess the weight of Rheumatic Diseases, the Authors retrospectively studied 117 patients admitted to the Internal Medicine Service of the Faro District Hospital over a 3 year period (1989-1991). The selection criterion comprised the final rheumatological diagnosis. The diseases were arranged in nosological groups according to the Classification of Rheumatic Diseases of the American Rheumatism Association. The relative frequency, in totality and by nosological groups, and other variables, were determined. The relative frequency was of 4.2%. The mean age was 52.9 years. The distribution in age groups showed 2 peaks in the sixth and seventh decades. Females were more often affected (61%). The mean time of internment was 22.3 days. The proportional mortality reached 6.8%. Diffuse Connective Tissue Diseases were the most frequently found (42.7%) and among these Rheumatoid Arthritis and Systemic Lupus Erythematous were the most prevailing.