Patient‐identified impact of symptoms in spinal and bulbar muscular atrophy

Introduction: The effects of spinal bulbar muscular atrophy (SBMA) on quality of life (QoL) are not well understood. This study describes symptoms from the patient's perspective, and the impact these symptoms have on QoL. Methods: We conducted open-ended interviews with 21 adult males with genetically confirmed SBMA. Using a qualitative framework technique, interviews were coded and analyzed to identify symptoms and resulting themes. Results: From these interviews, 729 quotations were extracted. We identified 200 SBMA-specific symptoms and 20 symptomatic themes. Weakness was mentioned by all interviewees. Symptoms within the domain of mental health and the specific themes of emotional issues and psychological impact were also frequently mentioned. Discussion: Numerous symptoms affect QoL for SBMA subjects. We identified previously unrecognized symptoms that are important to address in enhancing clinical care for patients with SBMA, and in developing tools to evaluate efficacy in future clinical trials. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.