Adaptation and initial results of the Polish version of the GA2LEN Chronic Urticaria Quality Of Life Questionnaire (CU-Q2oL)

BackgroundStrong negative influence upon the quality of life in chronic urticaria is well proved. Before the GA2LEN Chronic Urticaria Quality of Life Questionnaire (CU-Q2oL) was introduced, the quality of life in chronic urticaria had been measured with general or dermatology specific questionnaires. CU-Q2oL was initially developed in Italy and consisted of 23 items divided into 6 quality of life dimensions.ObjectiveThe aim of our study was to adapt the Polish version of CU-Q2oL and to provide initial results from the Polish sample.MethodsTo prepare the Polish version forward and back translation was prepared. After cognitive debriefing, we collected a group of 126 chronic urticaria patients who completed Polish CU-Q2oL, Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI) and Skindex-29 questionnaire. Disease severity was assessed with Urticaria Activity Score (UAS). We performed the factorial analysis to identify CU-Q2oL subscales in our study, internal consistency and convergent validity assessment as well as factors driving the results. Moreover, we analysed tool's reproducibility and responsiveness.ResultsThe factor analysis resulted in six subscales of Polish CU-Q2oL version with satisfying face validity: Itching, Swelling/Mental status, Functioning, Sleep, Eating/Limits, Embarrassment. All subscales presented recommended internal consistency and convergent validity. Disease severity was the only factor predicting results of all the subscales. Polish CU-Q2oL version was reproducible and sensitive to change. We noticed the highest quality of life impairment in Itching and Embarrassment subscales whereas Eating/Limits was the least affected.ConclusionsOur study supports reliability, responsiveness and validity of the Polish version of CU-Q2oL – easy in use, non time-consuming instrument to be used in research, clinical management and treatment outcome assessment and is one more step to confirm quality of life impairment in chronic urticaria.