Health related quality of life (HRQL) scoring in tuberculosis.

Abstract

Consecutive patients recently diagnosed with tuberculosis completed a HRQL questionnaire thrice over an eight-week period. Its construct validity and responsiveness were tested by comparing baseline and change in scores obtained with sputum conversion at the end of intensive phase (IP) of treatment. A significantly higher HRQL score at 8 weeks was observed in patients who converted at the end of IP as compared to those who failed to convert both at the end of IP and even after its extension by 4 weeks. HRQL scores showed a statistically significant negative correlation with sputum grading at 0 week 4 weeks and 8 weeks for each domain (Symptom score Socio-psychological & exercise adaptation score). The HRQL scoring for tuberculosis (DR-12 Scale) has a strong construct validity and is responsive to change in quality of life and may be a useful additional evaluative tool for follow up of the patients during treatment under RNTCP. (authors)