[Analysis of the experience of diabetes mellitus through case study: an approach to patient's quality of life]. / Análisis de la vivencia de la diabetes mellitus a través del estudio de casos: una aproximación a la calidad de vida del paciente.

BACKGROUND: To assess how patients with diabetes experience their condition. PATIENTS AND METHOD: Pilot study conducted in 10 selected patients with type 1 diabetes. A structured interview guide was prepared including physical, social and emotional areas. The information provided was analyzed qualitatively, key statements were coded in analysis units and processed using the computer program Ethnograph. RESULTS: Conceptual maps show that this group of patients: a) Do not feel physically limited but they need a constant planning of every aspect of their lives; b) they avoid openly manifesting their condition, they perceive discrimination at work and little social awareness, and c) except for survival skills, they primarily learn about their disease and its management through their own experience. CONCLUSION: This qualitative research method allows for the application of these observations to different groups within similar problems and contexts.