Psychological factors in chronic edema: a case–control study

Moffatt, C. J., Aubeeluck, A., Franks, P. J., Doherty, D. C., Mortimer, P. and Quere, I. (2017) Psychological factors in chronic edema: a case–control study. Lymphatic Research and Biology, 15(3), pp. 252-261. (doi: 10.1089/lrb.2017.0022) (PMID:28937923)

Abstract

Background: To examine psychological health and perceived social support in patients with chronic edema (CE). Methods and Results: A random sample of 107 patients with CE was group matched for age and gender with 102 community controls. The cases had swelling of the arm (38%) and leg (61%) and midline swelling (14%). Cases were more likely to be single or divorced/separated ( p = 0.041) and have reduced mobility ( p < 0.001). They had significantly poorer overall health related quality of life (HRQoL), in particular physical functioning ( p = 0.003); role physical ( p < 0.001); general health ( p = 0.026); vitality ( p = 0.015); social function ( p = 0.007); and role emotional ( p = 0.041). EQ5-D health index scores were significantly reduced in cases by 13 points ( p = < 0.001); and use of instrumental support ( p = 0.006). Significantly higher levels of coping were used in restraint ( p = 0.031), positive reinterpretation and growth ( p < 0.001); acceptance (< 0.001); mental disengagement ( p < 0.001); behavioral disengagement (< 0.001). Conclusions: Patients with CE have poorer health and greater impact on many aspects of HRQoL. Perceived social support is reduced. Deficits in social function combined with perceived reduction in support, and reduced mental health and emotional scores indicate the risk of psychological issues. Systems of care should offer an environment to address these issues.

• Item Type: Articles
• Additional Information: This study was undertaken as part of a King’s Fund grant.
• Status: Published
• Refereed: Yes
• Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID: Franks, Professor Peter
• Authors: Moffatt, C. J., Aubeeluck, A., Franks, P. J., Doherty, D. C., Mortimer, P., and Quere, I.
• College/School: College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences > School of Medicine, Dentistry & Nursing > Nursing and Health Care
• Journal Name: Lymphatic Research and Biology
• Publisher: Mary Ann Liebert
• ISSN: 1539-6851
• ISSN (Online): 1557-8585