Unmet needs of patients with systemic lupus erythematosus.

The authors' goal was to assess unmet needs of patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Participants (N = 112), who were recruited through the mailing list and support group meetings of a Lupus Alliance of America Affiliate, completed a survey based on prior research. All participants perceived at least 1 unmet need. The most frequently reported unmet needs were in the physical symptoms domain. Older patients were more likely than younger patients to have higher levels of unmet needs related to physical and psychological functioning. African American patients were more likely than white patients to have higher levels of unmet needs related to health services and information. Our findings document the high prevalence and variety of unmet needs among these patients, as well as variations among demographic groups. To address unmet needs of SLE patients, targeted referrals to patient educators, mental health professionals, and support organizations are important adjuncts to medical treatment.