Abstract
Objectives: To identify the design of patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) from the time of diagnosis to the course of treatment. Methodology: The design of this study is transversal, descriptive, with the incorporation of a qualitative-quantitative method, with it was submitted to the Research Ethics Committee (CEP). The Specialized Component in Pharmaceutical Assistance (CEAF) is the research site, where the carriers registered in the Horus system were interviewed in groups. We also performed the analysis of documentary data of patients enrolled in the system who proposed to participate in the study. Results: The majority of the patients are within the profiles that fit the lupus carriers, with a prevalence of 42 to 50 years (42.9%) and out of the menopause period (57.1%), with a diagnosis of more than five years (57.1%). About 57.1% complained about clinical manifestations, but 42.9% did not seek new treatment alternatives and only 14.3% attended support groups. On receiving the diagnosis 92.9% of the women reacted negatively, which triggered emotional problems, such as low self-esteem and depression. Currently, with the start of treatment, 64.3% believe in the cure for the disease. Conclusion: Through this study it was possible to identify several conceptions and to elaborate an in-depth epidemiological profile, where these data will serve as a basis for future care actions, in a broad and effective way, always seeking the improvement in patient’s quality of life.