[Psychometric validation of visual function questionnaire (NEI VQF-25) under local conditions in Slovakia, E.U].

AIM: The aim of this study is to validate the Slovak version of the National Eye Institute Visual Function Questionnaire-25 (NEI VQF-25) in patients with chronic ocular diseases.

MATERIAL AND

METHODS

The questionnaire was tested on 211 responders. The first group consisted of 83 patients with age-related macular degeneration (AMD), the second group represented 68 patients with diabetic macular edema (DME), and the control group had 60 responders. The Questionnaire (NEI VQF-25) consists of the base of 25 vision-targeted questions representing 11 vision-related constructs, plus an additional single-item general health-rating question. The data - demographic data and information from the Visual Function Questionnaire were obtained during one single visit of the patients during the period November 1st, 2010 and February 20th, 2011. The internal consistency and safety of the test were evaluated using Cronbachs alpha reliability coefficient. For separate groups the standard score was evaluated.

RESULTS

The coefficient higher than 0.7, evaluated as good reliability, was calculated in all constructs except the sub-scale "ocular pain". The validity, evaluated using multivariable analysis measuring convergence and discrimination analysis, in the end confirmed accomplishment of all circumstances. The composite score of NEI VQF-25 in the DME group was 69.9 ± 4.6, in the AMD group 68.5 ± 4.3, and the highest score had the control group 91 ± 1.8.

CONCLUSION

The questionnaire NEI VQF-25 in the Slovak version is useful and safe instrument to measure the quality of life in patients with DME and AMD.