Patients' perspectives on Dupuytren's disease: A scoping review and categorization using the WHO International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health Framework (ICF).

Abstract

Background: Dupuytren's disease (DD) often has an underestimated impact on the lives of those effected.

Purpose: This study aimed to provide a holistic overview of the available evidence regarding the patient perspectives (PP) on DD, which can help to better understand both the patients and the disease itself.

Study design: Scoping Review.

Methods: Based on the framework of Arksey and O'Malley and enhanced by the recommendations of Levac et al., a scoping review was used to locate the available material about PP on DD. Data collection was performed using the electronic databases PubMed, CINAHL and Embase, and additional sources. The included publications were classified using the Oxford Level of Evidence (LoE), and their findings were linked to the components, domains and corresponding codes of the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF).

Results: Of the total 2.127 search results, eight publications published between 2009 and 2020 were included. They have a sample size of seven to 85 patients and a LoE of IV. Data, clustered into 61 topics could be linked to the components 'Activities and Participation', 'Body Function and Structures', 'Environmental Factors' and 13 domains of the ICF. The results show that DD primarily affects patients in 'global mental functions' (n = 21), the 'mobility' (n = 18), 'community, social and civic life' (n = 10) and, 'self-care' (n = 10). The individual topics could be linked to up to eight ICF codes (second to third level category). The impact is perceived in general situations and clearly defined activities.

Conclusions: The results of this review illustrate the existence of the known functional impairments, limitations on self-care, and major impacts on psychosocial area. Due to the quality and lack of evidence, no generalized statement can be made about the value of PP on DD. Nevertheless, it has been shown that PP are essential for understanding both those affected and the disease itself thus be involved in diagnostic and treatment decisions in DD.