A new British study has found that patients with autoimmune disorders like lupus who were initially dismissed by doctors as psychosomatic are still experiencing long-lasting adverse impacts on their mental health and trust in medicine. The study, led by researchers at the University of Cambridge and Kings’ College London, involved nearly 3,400 patients and clinicians who were surveyed in 2021 and 2022.
The results showed that over 80% of those who were told their symptoms were imagined or psychiatric initially reported struggling with their sense of self-worth even years later. Another 72% said the initial misdiagnosis still upset them, leading to lower mental well-being, depression, anxiety, and satisfaction with medical care.
Lupus is a chronic condition that affects the immune system, causing it to attack healthy tissue. It’s often difficult to diagnose because its symptoms mimic those of other diseases. The study builds on earlier research that found more than half of lupus patients were initially misdiagnosed as psychosomatic or psychiatric.
The findings highlight the importance of early and accurate diagnosis, particularly for young women who are disproportionately affected by lupus. Advocates argue that primary care doctors should be trained to recognize the signs and symptoms of lupus, which can greatly impact patients’ quality of life.
Researchers emphasized the need for better diagnostic tools and support systems to reduce the negative impacts of misdiagnoses. Dr. Melanie Sloan said that simply acknowledging a patient’s experience and offering empathy can go a long way in healing the damage caused by initial misdiagnosis.
The study’s results serve as a reminder of the need for improved communication between doctors and patients, particularly for vulnerable populations who may be more likely to suffer from misdiagnoses.
Source: https://www.upi.com/Health_News/2025/03/02/autoimmune-misdiagnosis-study-lupus-patients/2771740601668