Differences in quality of life in patients with cutaneous lupus erythematosus with varying income levels

BackgroundCutaneous lupus erythematosus (CLE) is an autoimmune photosensitive skin condition. The impact of income on quality of life has been incompletely characterized in CLE.ObjectivesWe aimed to assess how annual income affects quality of life among CLE patients.MethodsIn this cross-sectional study of 238 patients with CLE, relationships between predictor variables including annual income and each SKINDEX-29 + 3 subdomain were identified using univariate and multivariable analyses. In addition, answers to individual SKINDEX-29 + 3 questions were compared across income groups. Clinical factors in patients making less than ResultsPatients making ConclusionsLower income is related to poorer quality of life in patients with CLE. Specifically, patients experience limitations regarding social isolation and self-consciousness.