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Abstract #8233 Published in IGR 4-3
How patients react when glaucoma is diagnosed?
Hamelin N; Blatrix C; Brion F; Mathieu C; Goemaere I; Nordmann JPJournal Français d'Ophtalmologie 2002; 25: 795-798
PURPOSE: To evaluate the psychological consequences of announcing the diagnosis of glaucoma. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Two hundred patients completed a 20-item questionnaire designed to analyze the context in which glaucoma was discovered, and the patients' reactions to this diagnosis. Behavioral modification in patients and their families are specified, as well as their perception of the information received. COMMENTS: Most patients had open-angle glaucoma and showed either an anxious or a passive reaction to the announcement of the diagnosis. Severe anxiety led to the prescription of minor tranquillizers or antidepressants in 11% of cases. Nearly half the patients declared that they had modified their behavior after receiving the diagnosis, indicating a need to play an active role in disease management. A large majority of patients were conscious of the risk of blindness related to glaucoma. However, they did not feel 'ill', but rather 'handicapped'. Most were dissatisfied with the information provided by their doctor, and sought other sources of information. CONCLUSIONS: Announcing a diagnosis of glaucoma is a decisive step in the physician-patient relationship, known to be important in future treatment compliance. Better adapted information with regular re-evaluation of the need for additional information is necessary. The psychological impact should be evaluated regularly in order to promote an active role on the part of the patient, and avoid a decline in quality of life.LA: French
N, Hamelin, MD, Hôpital des Quinze-Vingts, Université Paris V, 28 rue de Charenton, 75012 Paris, France
Classification:
1.4 Quality of life (Part of: 1 General aspects)
