The DoloTest® in a specialized headache center among patients receiving psychological treatment. A pilot study

Background The DoloTest is a newer health-related quality of life (HRQoL) monitoring instrument for pain, not yet validated for headache. Aims To examine the usefulness of the DoloTest in a specialized headache center. Methods The sample consisted of patients referred to psychologists from the Danish Headache Center (DHC) for whom the test was carried out at start of, end of, and 6 months after treatment. Points on eight scales of the test were measured (values ranged from 0 to 100), then totaled (0 to 800). Scores were analyzed using Wilcoxon Signed Ranks test. The correlation between headache days and DoloTest scores were computed using linear regression adjusted for age. Qualitative feedback on usefulness of the test were gathered from psychologists. Results Of 135 patients included, 105 completed treatment. On average, headache days decreased from 22 days per month at start of treatment (SD 9.0, median 29) to 18 days at end of treatment (SD 10.8, median 19) (p<0.001). At end of treatment, DoloTest scores improved for pain (p=0.015) and reduced energy and strength (p=0.034). At 6 months' follow-up, total scores improved (p=0.034), as well as component scores for pain (p=0.010), problems with strenuous activity (p=0.045) and reduced energy and strength (p=0.012). Correlation between reduced headache days and improved DoloTest scores was 0.303 (p=0.028). Psychologists found the test useful in monitoring and evaluating patients. Conclusions The DoloTest was useful for psychoeducation and for monitoring the effect of headache treatment. Implications The DoloTest is a potential HRQoL monitoring instrument for headache patients. We recommend further validation studies.