Rapid Screening Tool for Fatigue in Multiple Sclerosis
Author Information
Author(s): Daphne Kos, Guy Nagels, Marie B D'Hooghe, Marijke Duportail, Eric Kerckhofs
Primary Institution: Vrije Universiteit Brussel
Hypothesis
This study evaluates the psychometric properties of a rapid screening instrument for fatigue impact in multiple sclerosis.
Conclusion
The VAS for the impact of fatigue on daily life (VAS_1) is a moderately reliable, though valid and useful tool to screen rapidly for fatigue impact in multiple sclerosis.
Supporting Evidence
- VAS_1 showed 76% sensitivity and 72% specificity at a cut-off value of 59.
- VAS scales were able to discriminate between subjects with MS and healthy controls.
- The ICC of the VAS scales ranged from 0.68 to 0.69.
Takeaway
Researchers created a quick way to check how tired people with multiple sclerosis feel and found it works pretty well.
Methodology
Three visual analogue scales (VAS) were developed and tested for reliability and validity among subjects with multiple sclerosis and healthy controls.
Potential Biases
The study relied on self-report instruments, which may introduce bias, especially in individuals with cognitive disabilities.
Limitations
The study's results may not be generalizable to the entire MS population as it excluded individuals with lower EDSS scores.
Participant Demographics
62 individuals with clinically definite MS (mean age 52, 29 women) and 24 healthy controls (mean age 52, 13 women).
Statistical Information
Confidence Interval
0.68-0.69
Statistical Significance
p<0.0001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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