تصورات المرض لدى مرضى المناعة الذاتية قبل التشخيص الطبي :دراسة عيادية لأربع حالات بمستشفيات عين نموشنت

Abstract

This study aims to shed light on illness perceptions among patients with autoimmune diseases before medical diagnosis, by identifying the nature of the cognitive and emotional representations associated with the illness, as well as determining the social and cultural factors contributing to their formation. The study was conducted on a sample consisting of four cases of both genders, aged between 18 and 48 years old, selected from Ahmed Medaghri Hospital and Doctor Benzerdjeb Hospital. The study adopted the clinical approach based on the case study method, using a set of tools including observation, semi-structured interviews, and the Illness Perception Questionnaire (IPQ-R). The findings revealed that illness perceptions are not formed solely on a medical basis, but are influenced by a complex interaction between cognitive, emotional, and socio- cultural dimensions. The cases demonstrated that diagnostic ambiguity and the persistence of symptoms over long periods contributed to the development of negative illness representations characterized by fear, anxiety, and uncertainty. These factors also led participants to adopt supernatural explanations related to witchcraft or spirit possession as attempts to understand and give meaning to their illness experience. The results further highlighted the prominent role of family and popular beliefs in shaping these perceptions, particularly through reinforcing supernatural interpretations and encouraging the use of alternative treatments. Moreover, the study did not reveal significant differences in illness perceptions according to gender or educational level. In light of these findings, the study emphasizes the importance of integrating the psychological and cognitive dimensions into the care of patients with autoimmune diseases during the pre-diagnostic stage.