Symptom clustering in patients with childhood-onset systemic lupus erythematosus

Aims To: (a) explore the prevalence of the symptoms perceived by patients with childhood-onset systemic lupus erythematosus; (b) identify the symptom clusters occurring in patients with childhood-onset Systemic lupus erythematosus; and (c) examine the association of the burden of each symptom cluster with sleep quality and depression. Background Systemic lupus erythematosus is an inflammatory autoimmune disease that may result in patients' perception of various symptoms, with possible negative effects on their quality of life. Understanding the prevalence of symptoms perceived by childhood-onset Systemic lupus erythematosus patients and the disease's symptom clusters may be helpful in managing such burdensome symptoms. Design A correlational study design was used for this study in 2016. Methods Self-reported data from the Systemic lupus erythematosus symptom checklist were used to assess the symptoms perceived by patients. Symptom clusters were analysed using cluster analysis. Results Seventy-five patients were included in this study. The most prevalent and burdensome symptom perceived by patients was fatigue. Five clusters were derived, including symptoms related to pain and itching; bruises and stomach complaints; weight gain; body image and circulatory problems; and fatigue. A poor sleeper may perceive a greater symptom burden in all five of the symptom clusters, except for cluster #3, which refers to symptoms related to weight gain. Conclusion Five symptom clusters were identified. It is hoped that this study will give useful knowledge for understanding the symptom clusters for patients with Systemic lupus erythematosus and for improving nursing care quality.