Physical and Psychosocial Health in Pediatric Uveitis Patients

Abstract

Background: To investigate the possible associations between childhood noninfectious uveitis and cardio-respiratory fitness, physical activity, health related quality of life and fatigue.

Methods: Cross-sectional analysis of 23 patients with noninfectious uveitis, aged 8-18 years. BMI, exercise capacity, muscle strength and physical activity were measured. Health-related quality of life and fatigue were assessed. The results were compared to standardized values for age matched healthy children.

Results: Twenty-three patients were included. Children with uveitis had a higher bodyweight and body mass index. Children with uveitis had lower cardio-respiratory fitness and they were less physically active, but they experienced a normal quality of life and normal fatigue. Parents of children with uveitis reported a lower quality of life and more fatigue for their children than parents of healthy children.

Conclusion: Our study indicates that children with noninfectious uveitis are at risk of developing lower physical and psychosocial health.

Keywords: Childhood uveitis; decreased physical activity; lower - parent reported - health related quality of life; lower aerobic exercise capacity; more - parent reported – fatigue; reduced muscle strength.