EoE ToT Module 2 References-Pokrzywinski et al J Pat Rep Outcomes 2023 Qualitative assessment of the suitability of the dysphagia symptom questionnaire

Pokrzywinski et al J Pat Rep Outcomes 2023 Qualitative assessment of the suitability of the dysphagia symptom questionnaire

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The study titled "Qualitative assessment of the suitability of the Dysphagia Symptom Questionnaire to monitor dysphagia in children aged 7–10 years with eosinophilic esophagitis" by Pokrzywinski et al. discusses the evaluation of the Dysphagia Symptom Questionnaire (DSQ) in a pediatric population. Currently validated for ages 11-40, the DSQ assesses the frequency and severity of dysphagia in patients with eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE). <br /><br />The study aims to examine the content validity and usability of the DSQ on an electronic handheld device for children aged 7-10 with EoE. Sixteen participants (aged 7-8 years: n=8; aged 9-10 years: n=8) were recruited for the qualitative study. Two rounds of interviews were conducted: the first to assess the DSQ's appropriateness and the second to measure its usability after a two-week period during which participants completed the DSQ daily.<br /><br />Findings indicated that the most commonly reported EoE-associated concept was ‘trouble with swallowing’. While most participants found the DSQ questions easy and relevant, probing revealed comprehension inconsistencies. Some terms like ‘solid food’, ‘trouble swallowing’, ‘vomit’, and 'relief' posed comprehension challenges. For instance, some children did not classify “pancakes” or “cereal” as solid food. Although most caregivers reported that their children experienced dysphagia, DSQ scores over the study were low (mean score: 7.3), suggesting either mild dysphagia or misunderstanding of the questions.<br /><br />Regarding usability, most children found using the electronic device easy and were willing to continue beyond the study period. However, some did face technical issues, leading to missed DSQ entries. Most participants completed the DSQ for a median of 7 consecutive days out of 14.<br /><br />In conclusion, the DSQ may need modifications to enhance comprehensibility for children aged 7-10 years before being deemed appropriate for clinical trials. Future studies and improved educational efforts on using the DSQ are recommended to ensure accurate ailment reporting.

Keywords

Dysphagia Symptom Questionnaire

children

eosinophilic esophagitis

content validity

usability

electronic handheld device

comprehension challenges

pediatric population

qualitative study

clinical trials