• Markus A Landolt, Sandra Grubenmann, and Martin Meuli.
• Pediatric Burn Center, Department of Surgery, University of Children's Hospital, Zurich, Switzerland. mlandolt@kispi.unizh.ch
• J Trauma. 2002 Dec 1;53(6):1146-51.

BackgroundAlthough there is some knowledge of psychological adjustment, almost nothing is known about quality of life in pediatric burn survivors.MethodsParents of 105 burn survivors (age, 5-17 years; total body surface area burned, 10-64%) were assessed by standardized questionnaires 1 to 13 years postburn. Predictive values of clinical variables and family environment were assessed.ResultsMost dimensions of quality of life and psychological adjustment were normal. Compared with healthy norms, burn survivors only showed less positive emotions. Good family relationships and younger age at burn injury were the only significant predictors of good quality of life. Psychological adjustment was predicted by family relationships.ConclusionIf given optimal care, most pediatric burn survivors demonstrate excellent quality of life. Families with compromised relationships and patients with higher age at burn injury should be identified early, monitored closely, and offered psychosocial support as soon as dysfunctional family dynamics are detected.

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