Chronic cough: health status assessment with EQ-5D-5L questionnaire

Abstract

Introduction: EuroQol Five Dimensions Five Level questionnaire (EQ-5D-5L) can be used to assess generic health status and cost-utility. We investigated EQ-5D-5L health status in chronic cough and performed a systematic review of the literature in other respiratory diseases. Method: Prospective study of patients with chronic cough from a specialist clinic who completed EQ-5D (range -0.594 to 1; high score = better health), cough severity visual analogue scale (VAS) and Leicester Cough Questionnaire (LCQ). Systematic review of literature was conducted for studies of EQ-5D-5L in other respiratory diseases. Results: 101 patients had chronic cough of mean (SD) duration 9 (8) months; mean age 53 (14) years; 68% female. Associated diagnoses included asthma (20%), refractory/unexplained (74%) and other (16%). Median (IQR) symptom and health status scores were: cough VAS 63 (41-81) mm, LCQ total 10 (8-13), EQ-5D index 0.74 (0.67-0.88) and EQ-5D VAS 66 (50-80). Mean (SD) EQ-5D index for refractory cough was 0.747 (0.221). EQ-5D index was associated with LCQ (ρ=0.30; p The systematic review identified 4 studies that reported EQ-5D-5L. Mean (SD) EQ-5D index was 0.80 (0.17) in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (Nolan, C. M. et al. Thorax 2016; 6:493) and was 0.69 (0.22) in interstitial lung disease (Wapenaar, M. et al. Chron Respir Dis 2016; 1:1479972316674425). Conclusion: Generic health status in chronic cough is impaired and is modestly associated with LCQ but not with cough VAS. Further studies are need to assess health economics with EQ-5D and LCQ in chronic cough.