64 Temperature Sensitivity Is Associated with Lower Satisfaction with Life After Burns

Abstract Introduction Temperature sensitivity is a common problem after burn injury. However, the impact of temperature sensitivity on health-related quality of life (QoL) is unknown. We aimed to describe characteristics associated with temperature sensitivity and determine its association with patient reported QoL. We hypothesized that temperature sensitivity negatively impacts both mental and physical health. Methods We reviewed a multicenter burn database for participants who had been asked about hot or cold temperature sensitivity 6, 12 and 24 months after injury. Outcomes of interest included the Satisfaction with Life Scale (SWLS) score and Veterans RAND 12 (VR-12) physical (PCS) & mental health summary (MCS) scores. Chi square and Kruskal-Wallis tests determined differences in patient and injury characteristics. Generalized linear regression models included burn size (%TBSA), graft size (%TBSA), location of burn, pruritis intensity, amputation status, study site, and review of systems questions at each follow-up visit as covariates to determine the impact of temperature sensitivity on QoL. Results The cohort was comprised of 637 participants. Prevalence of temperature sensitivity at each follow-up period ranged from 48%-54%. Those who experienced temperature sensitivity had larger burns, required more grafting, and had higher intensity of pruritus at discharge. Temperature sensitivity was associated with lower SWLS scores and lower VR-12 PCS and MCS at each follow-up period. After controlling for confounding variables, temperature sensitivity remained a significant independent predictor of lower SWLS scores (OR -3.2, 95% CI -5.4, -1.1) and VR-12 MCS (OR -4.4, 95% CI -7.4, -1.4) at 6 months follow-up. Conclusions Temperature sensitivity is a highly prevalent symptom after burn injury and an independent predictor of worse satisfaction with life and worse mental health recovery.