Validity and Responsiveness of EuroQoL-5 (EQ-5D-3L) Versus SF-36 Questionnaire in Chronic Pelvic Pain

Abstract

Background and Objectives: Assessment of health-related quality of life (QoL) and particularly utility values are important components of health economic analyses. However, no consensus has emerged regarding the most appropriate instrument within a therapeutic area such as chronic pelvic pain (CPP). Thus, this study compared two instruments EuroQoL-five dimensions-3 levels (EQ-5D-3L) and Short Form Health Survey (SF-36) for their validity in patients with CPP. Methods: This was an intervention study, parallel design intersubject and intrasubject variabilities, was conducted in the hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Damascus University over 2 years. The participants in this study were 70 women with CPP who underwent laparoscopic adhesiolysis. The women were assessed at 0 and 6 months for QoL measures SF-36 and EQ-5D-3L. Results: Out of 70 participants who underwent laparoscopy, 60 qualified to take part in this study after doing the operation. Moderate correlations among the majority of dimensions was seen. In SF-36, the most severe problems were seen in the dimensions VT-BP and mental health according to the level of severity of pain. In EQ-5D-3L, patients most frequently noted having sever problems in pain/discomfort dimension and in the second place usual activity and anxiety/depression. Both tools could differentiate between the severity levels of pain, but EQ-5D-3L was more responsive to deterioration in pain. SF-36 had a higher response means to improvements. Conclusions: SF-36 appears to be more appropriate to be used among patients with CPP.