Prediction of Quality of Life Using Dermatology Life Quality Index in Iranian Patients with Neurofibromatosis Type 1

Abstract

Background: Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1), a genetic condition most commonly characterized by the presence of dermal neurofibromas and café au lait macules, has a significant impact upon the Quality of Life (QoL). The purpose of this study is to predict the QoL with Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI) in Iranian patients with neurofibromatosis type .1
 Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted on 223 patients with neurofibromatosis type 1 using available sampling. Data collection tools were demographic information form, SF-36 and DLQI questionnaires. Quality of life was predicted by DLQI. Linear and multiple regression tests were utilized to analyze the data.
 Results: Predicting the quality of life by dermatology quality of life showed that the physical function by the variable “work and school” and treatment, role limitations due to physical health by the variable of work and school, the role limitations due to emotional problems by the variable of treatment, emotional well-being by the variable of interpersonal relationships, pain by the variable of symptoms and feelings, daily activities, and personal relationships were predictable. Finally, social function, general health and fatigue cannot be predicted by any variable.
 Conclusion: The results of this study indicated that the quality of dermatology life is able to predict some aspects of quality of life. These findings can be used to provide better health services to this group of patients and improve their quality of life.