Pain problems prevalent in adults with hemophilia

The overall median pain severity and pain interference were 3.0 (range, 1.3-4.8) and 2.9 (range, 0.7-5.2), respectively. The median worst pain was 6.0, least pain 2.0, average pain 3.0, and current pain 2.0. Ankles were the most frequently reported site of pain.

When completing the International Physical Activity Questionnaire, 49.3% of patients (73/148) reported no activity in the prior week.

The median SF-36v2 scores were lower for physical health domains than mental health domains, and the overall median health score was 3.0 (range, 2.0-3.0).

The median score on the Hemophilia Activities List was 76.1 (range, 59.2-95.1). And patients said hemophilia had a greater impact on their lower extremities than upper extremities.

Dr Recht and his colleagues said these results substantiate the high prevalence of pain in adults with hemophilia. And the study highlights opportunities to improve the assessment and management of pain in these patients.

Study investigators have received funding/consulting fees from—or are employees/shareholders of—Novo Nordisk, Baxter, Biogen, Bayer, OctaPharma, Pfizer, CSL Behring, Kendrion, Alexion, Grifols, OPKO Health, Sanofi, Merck, and ProMeticLife Sciences.