The psychometric properties of the Leicester Cough Questionnaire and Respiratory Symptoms in CF tool in cystic fibrosis: A preliminary study.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: There are few tools to quantify the impact of cough in cystic fibrosis (CF). The psychometric properties of the Leicester Cough Questionnaire (LCQ) and Respiratory Symptoms in CF (ReS-CF) tool were investigated in adults with CF. METHODS: Validity and reliability were assessed in clinically stable participants who completed the questionnaires twice, along with the Cystic Fibrosis Questionnaire - Revised (CFQ-R). Responsiveness was assessed by change in questionnaires following treatment for an acute respiratory exacerbation. RESULTS: Correlations between the LCQ and CFQ-R respiratory domain were moderate (n=59, rs=0.78, p<0.001). Correlations between ReS-CF and CFQ-R respiratory domain were fair (rs=-0.50, p<0.001). The LCQ total score was repeatable (ICC 0.92, 95%CI 0.87-0.96, n=50). In those reporting improvement in symptoms following treatment (n=36), LCQ total score had a mean change of 4.6 (SD 3.7) and effect size of 1.2. CONCLUSIONS: The LCQ and ReS-CF appear to be valid, reliable and responsive in CF. TRIAL REGISTRATION www.anzctr.org.au ACTRN12615000262505.