Quality of life in immunoglobulin A-nephropathy

Background : The quality of life (QoL) and the psychological burden of immunoglobulin A nephropathy (IgAN) have not been thoroughly studied. Aim : To analyze QoL and complaints of patients with IgAN and to test the hypothesis that QoL scores are associated with clinical and demographic variables. Patients and methods : The study included 221 patients with primary IgAN, confirmed by biopsy. None of patients had received immunosuppressive treatment. QOL was assessed using the Russian version of the Kidney Disease Quality of Life Short Form (KDQOL-SF) questionnaire, which includes general scales for measuring QoL independent of disease and kidney-specific scales. In additions to QoL parameters, the prevalence of patient complaints was examined. Routine clinical and demographic data were used as independent variables in multiple regression models. Results : General QoL scores in patients with IgAN were comparable to those of conditionally healthy individuals. On CKD-specific scales, the highest scores were reported for "work status" and "symptoms/problems", while the lowest were for "burden of kidney disease". Key stressors included the disease itself, dietary restrictions, fatigue and impact of the disease on appearance. Female sex, older age, lower albumin level, and higher average blood pressure were independently associated with reduced QoL. Conclusion : Although IgAN patients scored relatively high on most QoL scales, they endure a a significant psychological and social burden. Identifying and addressing the psychological and social factors influencing life under the strain of the disease can be crucial for for improving patient-centered outcomes in IgAN management.