Itineraries of the rheumatic patients towards the rheumatologist in DR Congo

Abstract

Objectives: To describe the itineraries of the rheumatic patients towards the rheumatologist.

Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was performed in patients attending the rheumatology unit of the University Hospital of Kinshasa from 1^st October 2012 to 31^st March 2013. Data collected were general demographic parameters, educational level, prior treatment and the delay between the onset of symptoms and the first consultation.

Results: Eighty six patients were included with 53 women (61.6%) and 33 men. Mean age was 52.4 ± 8.3 years and the age at onset symptom was 47.3 ± 7.2 years. Disease duration before rheumatologist consultation was 4.7 ± 4.3 years. The lower age was equal to 55 years, low level of education and female gender were the determinants of the long delay in the consultation of the rheumatologist. Prior treatment consisted primarily of NSAIDs and paracetamol.

Conclusion: Rheumatic patients followed at the UHK generally consult after a relatively long period, therefore delaying the diagnosis and the treatment.

Keywords: Rheumatologist, Itineraries