Reliability of the Thai Version of SF-36 Questionnaire for an Evaluation of Quality of Life in Multiple Sclerosis Patients in Multiple Sclerosis Clinic at Siriraj Hospital
Naressak Laosanguanek MD*, Thaddao Wiroteurairuang MD*, Sasitorn Siritho MD*, Naraporn Prayoonwiwat MD*
Affiliation : * Neurology Division, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
Background : To study the application, validity and reliability of a Thai version of SF-36 questionnaires in Thai multiple
sclerosis (MS) patients.
Material and Method: An evaluation of quality of life using a Thai version of SF-36 was performed in 70 MS or clinical
isolated syndrome (CIS) patients.
Statistical analysis: Measurement of internal consistency was done by Cronbach’s alpha coefficient and inter-item correlation;
measurement of The test-retest reliability assessing consistency of the measure was done by Pearson correlation.
Results : There were 55 clinical definite MS patients, 12 laboratory-supported definite MS patients and 3 clinical-probable MS
patients, according to Poser criteria. MS types were classified as PP-primary progressive MS (2), RR-relapsing remitting MS
(59), SP-secondary progressive MS (3) and CIS (6). Internal consistency measured by Cronbach’s Alpha exceeded 0.7 except
social functions, which was 0.69. The item correlation coefficient ranged from 0.47-0.88. Reliability of test-retest all items
determined by Pearson correlation was significant, ranging from 0.84-0.94.
Conclusion : Thai version SF-36 questionnaire is reliable for the assessment of quality of life in Thai multiple sclerosis
patients.
Keywords : Thai, SF-36, Multiple sclerosis, Quality of life
