Correlation and differences of patient-reported outcomes vs. Likert-Rating of MS symptoms in a real-world cohort using a digital patient app

Research output: Contribution to journalResearch articleContributedpeer-review

Contributors

  • Steffeni Mountford - (Author)
  • Maria Kahn - (Author)
  • Preetha Balakrishnan - (Author)
  • Elizabeth Jacyshyn-Owen - (Author)
  • Markus Eberl - (Author)
  • Benjamin Friedrich - (Author)
  • Natalie Joschko - (Author)
  • Tjalf Ziemssen - , Department of Neurology (Author)

Abstract

BackgroundMultiple Sclerosis (MS) is a chronic and progressive neurological autoimmune disease currently affecting 250,000 individuals in Germany. Patients suffering from the disease can be severely impaired in their day-to-day activities. BRISA is a digital app specifically designed to help MS patients monitor their disease by regularly tracking symptoms. Lengthy and time-consuming questionnaires for patient-reported outcomes (PRO) are the standard method to assess the patients' current condition. Here, we examine whether simplified versions of these questionnaires can provide comparable information regarding individual symptom presentations in BRISA users. Methods828 users were included in the analysis. Patients who provided onboarding information and answered at least one questionnaire and the corresponding simplified smiley symptoms assessment were included. Correlation of questionnaire and symptom scores was calculated using Pearson's correlation. ResultsOur analysis cohort predominantly consisted of female, 26-55-year-olds. Relapsing-remitting MS (RRMS) was the most common MS type recorded. Most patients were diagnosed 2-5 years ago. Questionnaires regarding fatigue and vision impairment were among the most answered, those regarding bowel movement and sexual satisfaction received fewest responses. Overall, the scores from questionnaires and symptoms correlated positively. Scoring correlation could also be shown across the subgroups divided by gender, age groups, type of MS, and time since diagnosis of the disease. ConclusionScores recorded from traditional PRO questionnaires can be reflected more easily as a trend in a simplified scale using smileys. Nevertheless, traditional questionnaires are needed to also maintain a more objective assessment. In conclusion, the patient will benefit most from an adaptive combination of regular traditional PRO questionnaire assessments and simplified symptom recording.

Details

Original languageEnglish
Number of pages9
JournalDigital health
Volume9
Publication statusPublished - Jan 2023
Peer-reviewedYes

External IDs

Scopus 85160427636
WOS 000989097300001
PubMed 37214657
Mendeley cb9fe9f1-e2de-3118-9378-9be8dbae23c8
unpaywall 10.1177/20552076231173520

Keywords

Keywords

  • Brisa, Digital health, Multiple sclerosis, Questionnaire, Symptoms