Skin-related quality of life in children and adolescents with congenital melanocytic naevi - an analysis of self- and parent reports.

Abstract

Congenital melanocytic naevi (CMN) may affect patient quality of life (QoL) due to medical complications (development of malignant melanoma or involvement of the central nervous system), skin-related discomfort or psychosocial sequelae. To analyse skin-related QoL in children and adolescents with CMN and to identify predictors of low QoL. Worldwide recruitment of participants through patient support groups. Data collection through a Web-based survey. QoL was assessed using the Children's Dermatology Life Quality Index© (CDLQI). Demographic and CMN-related characteristics were examined as possible predictors of impaired QoL. A total of 135 proxy reports for children affected by CMN aged 4-18years (M=9.34years, SD=4.16years) and 28 self-reports of adolescents aged 14-18years (M=16.3years, SD=1.2years) were included. The mean CDLQI score was 4.00 (SD=4.39) for proxy reports and 6.89 (SD=5.85) for self-reports. Most parents (76%) reported 'no' or a 'small' impact, 19% a 'moderate' and 5% a 'very large' or 'extremely large' impact on their child's QoL. In self-reports, 46% of the adolescents reported 'no' or a 'small impact', 43% a 'moderate' and 11% a 'very large' or 'extremely large' impact. Visible CMN location, malignant melanoma and higher child's age were important predictors of QoL impairments. Most CMN have a modest effect on QoL. However, there is large variability with a significant proportion of adolescents experiencing a moderate-to-large impact on QoL in contrast to children. Healthcare professionals should be aware of the predictors of QoL in children with CMN.