Validity and reliability of the Arabic version of topical corticosteroid phobia (TOPICOP©) questionnaire.

OBJECTIVES

To translate the topical corticosteroid phobia (TOPICOP) scale into Arabic and assess its validity, reliability, and feasibility.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study was carried out at Jordan University Hospital, Amman, Jordan, in 2 phases. Phase one involved translation of the TOPICOP scale into Arabic using a 2-step process, followed by pilot testing and content validation by 6 bilingual dermatologists. Phase 2 involved subsequent validation and feasibility testing on a larger sample of 145 participants. To assess reliability, the scale was administered twice for test-retest analysis.

RESULTS

Calculated content validity indices revealed satisfactory values, establishing content validation of the Arabic version. Cronbach's alpha coefficient indicated reliable internal consistency (0.757). Test-retest reliability yielded a Pearson's correlation coefficient of 0.775 (p<0.001). The mean global TOPICOP score was 56.4%. The scale was clear, feasible, and completed in under 5 minutes without difficulty.

CONCLUSION

The Arabic TOPICOP scale is a valid, reliable, and effective tool for assessing corticosteroid phobia in Arabic-speaking populations. Its implementation can enhance understanding of patient adherence and improve eczema treatment outcomes, benefiting healthcare providers, including dermatologists, general practitioners, and family physicians.