Background Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic, disabling, progressive disease, with many associated comorbidities, affecting patients during prime working years resulting in a high economic burden on society, producing high direct, indirect and intangible costs [1]. Pain and sufferings of patients because of a disease, which are usually measured by using the reduction in Quality of Life (QoL), define intangible costs. To date, there is no data available about intangible costs of SLE in the Republic of Moldova.

Objectives To estimate the intangible costs of SLE in the Republic of Moldova.

Methods We conducted a cross-sectional study including consecutive patients fulfilling the SLICC, 2012 classification criteria for SLE. The disease activity was calculated by SLAM and damage index - SLICC/ACR DI. The intangible costs were calculated using two methods: willingness-to-pay (WTP) for a hypothetical cure of SLE and QoL, estimated by SF-8 questionnaire.

Results The study included 106 patients, female:male ratio 10,7:1, mean age ± SD of41,1±12,6 yr, mean disease duration ± SD 90,0±87,2 months. The disease activity by SLAM was 11±5,2 points and mean SLICC/ACRDI 1,9±2,4 points. The analysis of the mental and physical component status of the QoL showed a reduction of both variables compared to general population: PCS and MCS were 43,2±9,6 and 46,9±13,4 points, respectively. It was established a close significant negative correlation between physical component status and disease activity by SLAM (r=-0,83, p<0,001) and no correlation with variables as disease duration, age at onset, socio-economic status. The monetary value of intangible costs was characterized by a large distribution, ranging from 790 to 52,600 thousands Euros, with a mean value of 9,420 Euros. The monetary value of intangible costs was influenced by the disease activity and working status (p<0,05).

Conclusions The intangible costs are an important component of SLE's total costs, influencing substantially the disease's economic burden in Republic of Moldova.

References

1. Turchetti G et al. Systemic lupus erythematosus and the economic perspective: a systematic literature review and points to consider. Clin Exp Rheumatol. 2012 Jul-Aug;30 (4 Suppl 73):S116-22. Epub 2012 Oct 16.

Disclosure of Interest None declared