The Dutch Central Sensitization Inventory (CSI): Factor Analysis, Discriminative Power, and Test-Retest Reliability

Area of Science:

• Pain research
• Psychometrics
• Clinical assessment

Background:

• Central sensitization is a key mechanism in chronic pain.
• The Central Sensitization Inventory (CSI) is an English tool for assessment.
• A validated Dutch version is needed for clinical use.

Purpose of the Study:

• Translate the CSI into Dutch.
• Determine its underlying factor structure.
• Evaluate its discriminative power and test-retest reliability.

Main Methods:

• The CSI was translated into Dutch.
• Exploratory factor analysis was performed on 368 chronic pain patients.
• Discriminative ability and test-retest reliability were assessed in patients and controls.

Main Results:

• A 20-item, 4-factor model emerged: General disability/physical symptoms, Higher central sensitivity, Urological/dermatological symptoms, and Emotional distress.
• Chronic pain patients scored significantly higher on all factors.
• Excellent test-retest reliability was observed (ICC=0.88-0.91).

Conclusions:

• The Dutch CSI is a reliable and valid instrument.
• It demonstrates good internal consistency and discriminative power.
• The identified domains can inform patient profiling and treatment strategies.