Factors associated with quality of life of people with myasthenia gravis

Abstract

Purpose As most of patients with Myasthenia Gravis have limitations in their physical functioning, many experience changes in psychological states and often have depression. The objective of the current study was to examine the roles of communication with medical professionals, patients’ loneliness, and patients’ depression, in relation to their effects on the patients’ quality of life. Methods For 120 patients with MG of 18 years and older, demographic variables, along with communication with medical professionals, loneliness, depression, and quality of life were measured. Results As a result, people suffering from MG experienced lower quality of life when their career has changed due to the illness. At the same time, depression was a significant predictor of their quality of life, both in physical and mental domains. Conclusions The implications for clinical settings and the suggestions for future research are discussed.