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Quality of life evaluation in patients with onychomycosis in a rural ecuadorian population

Abstract:

Introduction: Onychomycosis is the most frequent nail-bed pathology and different pathogenic agents can cause it. Even though mortality caused by onychomycosis is not significant, the impact in the quality of life for those that suffer it can be both physiological and psychological. Consequently, their ability to work, as well as their self-esteem and ability to interact with others can be affected. Methodology: A descriptive and transversal study was performed in 384 adult patients that went to three health centers in the Vinces and Urdaneta counties. A probabilistic or intentional sampling process was enforced, including all the individuals diagnosed with onychomycosis. A data collection instrument that included sociodemographic characteristics was applied. After evaluating medical history and performing a physical exam, the Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI) questionnaire was used in order to evaluate the impact of the disease in the quality of life of the subjects. The SPSS program, version 19 was used for the statistical analysis, considering the results as significant when p<0.05. Results: Of the 384 evaluated individuals, 38.3% (n=147) suffered extreme impact in their quality of life, being greater in women (82.6% vs 67.5%, p=0.001). There was a higher frequency in diabetic patients (90.1%) with 82.8% of hands involvement. The mean score of the DLQI was 18; it was highest in older adults with 21 points. Diabetic individuals have 24 points and patients with hands or hands and feet involved had higher scores than those with toe onychomycosis only. Conclusion: There is a high impact in the quality of life of onychomycosis patients that must be considered at the time of treating this pathology. In our population, this is especially prevalent in women and diabetic patients. Therefore, it is necessary to pay special attention to those risk factors that might be affecting these specific groups.