Rasch-built myotonic dystrophy type 1 activity and participation scale (DM1-Activ)

Mieke C. E. Hermans*, Catharina G. Faber, Marc H. De Baets, Christine E. M. de Die-Smulders, Ingemar S. J. Merkies

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalArticleAcademicpeer-review

Abstract

We describe the development of an outcome measure of activity and participation for patients with myotonic dystrophy type 1 using the Rasch measurement model. A 49-item questionnaire was completed by 163 DM1 patients. Data were subsequently analyzed with Rasch software to design the item set to fit model expectations. Through systematic investigation of response category ordering, model fit, item bias, and local response dependency, we succeeded in constructing a 20-item unidimensional scale of activity and participation (DM1-Activ). High internal consistency (PSI = 0.95) and good test-retest reliability values of item difficulty hierarchy and patient location were demonstrated. Patient measures had acceptable correlations with MRC sum scores and MIRS grades (ICC = 0.69 and 0.71, respectively), indicating good external construct validity. DM1-Activ is a practical, reliable and valid outcome measure that fulfils all clinimetric requirements. Further evaluation of this scale is needed to provide a nomogram for clinical use.
Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)310-318
JournalNeuromuscular Disorders
Volume20
Issue number5
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - May 2010

Keywords

  • Myotonic dystrophy type 1
  • Outcome assessment
  • Rasch analysis

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