Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 28, 2026
11:35
The Multiple Sclerosis Performance Test (MSPT): An iPad-Based Disability Assessment Tool
Published on: June 30, 2014
The memorial symptom assessment scale short form (MSAS-SF)
V T Chang1, S S Hwang, M Feuerman
1University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey, New Jersey Medical School, Section Hematology/Oncology, VA New Jersey Health Care System at East Orange, 07018, USA. CHANG.VICTOR_T@EAST-ORANGE.VA.GOV
Cancer
|August 30, 2000
Summary
The Memorial Symptom Assessment Scale Short Form (MSAS-SF) is a validated tool for assessing cancer patient symptoms. This easy-to-use instrument accurately measures symptom distress and frequency, aiding in patient care.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Psychometrics
- Clinical Assessment
Background:
- The Memorial Symptom Assessment Scale Short Form (MSAS-SF) is an abbreviated version of the Memorial Symptom Assessment Scale.
- It measures 32 symptoms for distress or frequency and can derive physical symptom (PHYS), psychologic symptom (PSYCH), and global distress index (GDI) subscales.
- Previous validation was needed in diverse patient populations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To validate the Memorial Symptom Assessment Scale Short Form (MSAS-SF) in a population of cancer patients.
- To assess the reliability and validity of the MSAS-SF and its subscales against established measures.
Main Methods:
- The MSAS-SF was administered to 299 cancer patients, alongside the Functional Assessment Cancer Therapy (FACT-G).
- Karnofsky performance status (KPS), extent of disease (EOD), and demographic data were collected.
- Internal reliability (Cronbach alpha) and criterion validity (correlation with FACT-G, KPS, EOD) were assessed. Test-retest reliability was evaluated at 1 day and 1 week.
Main Results:
- The MSAS-SF subscales demonstrated strong internal reliability (Cronbach alpha: 0.76–0.87).
- Significant convergent validity was found between MSAS-SF subscales and FACT subscales (correlation coefficients: -0.68 to -0.74, P < 0.001).
- Test-retest reliability was good at 1 day (0.86–0.94) and acceptable at 1 week (0.40–0.84).
Conclusions:
- The Memorial Symptom Assessment Scale Short Form (MSAS-SF) is a valid and reliable instrument for symptom assessment in cancer patients.
- Its ease of use and robust psychometric properties support its application in clinical settings.
- The MSAS-SF effectively captures symptom burden and quality of life in oncology.
