[Searching for more specific dimensions for the measurement of quality of life in multiple sclerosis].

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES

Study of the quality of life in multiple sclerosis (MS) should consider use of an instrument which includes social, psychological, physical and mental aspects. The objective of this study is to show the validated dimensions of the scale of quality of life Functional Assessment of Multiple Sclerosis (FAMS) in the Spanish population, and verify their consistency.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

308 patients with MS (clinically defined or with laboratory support, according to Poser s clinical criteria), referred from 10 Neurology Outpatient Clinics of Hospitals of the Autonomic Community of Madrid. The study was of transversal design, and carried out by direct interview. We used a questionnaire containing the FAMS scale and other variables related to different aspects (clinical, social, employment, psychological and cognitive).

RESULTS

The average age was 38.2 +/- 10.5 years with an average score on the Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) of 3.6 +/- 2.3. The average scores of the parameters are lower than those obtained with the original version of FAMS; the internal consistency of these dimensions is slightly higher than those of the original FAMS. The parameters symptoms and general state of mind and also the FAMS in general had their internal consistency increased by the inclusion of eight variables which were originally excluded.

CONCLUSION

The FAMS scale is more consistent and reliable for the evaluation of quality of life if we include specific variables of MS which do not form part of the American version of the FAMS.