Measuring the impact of burn scarring on health-related quality of life: Development and preliminary content validation of the Brisbane Burn Scar Impact Profile (BBSIP) for children and adults

• The Brisbane Burn Scar Impact Profile (BBSIP) was developed.
• The BBSIP is a measure of burn-scar specific health-related quality of life.
• Unique items of the impact of burn scars were developed from patient-report.
• The measure was designed to be suitable for use in clinical trials.
• Preliminary content validation of the profile was supported.

IntroductionNo burn-scar specific, health-related quality of life (HRQOL) measure exists. This study aimed to develop a patient-reported, evaluative HRQOL measure to assess the impact of burn scarring in children and adults.MethodSemi-structured interviews, content validation surveys, and cognitive interviews were used to develop and test content validity of a new measure – the Brisbane Burn Scar Impact Profile (BBSIP).ResultsParticipants comprised Australian adults (n = 23) and children (n = 19) with burn scarring; caregivers of children with burn scarring (n = 28); and international scar management experts (n = 14). Items distinct from other burn scar measures emerged. Four versions of the BBSIP were developed; one for children aged 8–18 years, one for adults, one for caregivers (as proxies for children aged less than 8-years), and one for caregivers of children aged 8–18 years. Preliminary content validity of the BBSIP was supported. Final items covered physical and sensory symptoms; emotional reactions; impact on social functioning and daily activities; impact of treatment; and environmental factors.ConclusionThe BBSIP was developed to assess burn-scar specific HRQOL and will be available at http://www.coolburns.com.au under a creative commons license. Further testing is underway.