Italian validation of the Arm Function in Multiple Sclerosis Questionnaire (AMSQ)

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Rehabilitation Medicine
• Psychometrics

Background:

• Deficits in arm and hand function are prevalent in people with multiple sclerosis (PwMS).
• The Arm Function in Multiple Sclerosis Questionnaire (AMSQ) is a novel self-administered instrument designed to evaluate upper limb function in MS.
• Assessing upper limb function is crucial for managing MS and improving patient quality of life.

Purpose of the Study:

• To translate and adapt the AMSQ into Italian.
• To evaluate the psychometric properties of the Italian AMSQ in PwMS.
• To provide a reliable and valid instrument for assessing upper limb function in Italian PwMS.

Main Methods:

• A prospective cohort of 234 PwMS was recruited from Italian Multiple Sclerosis Society outpatient clinics.
• The study assessed construct validity by correlating AMSQ scores with ABILHAND, MFIS, and FIM.
• Reliability was evaluated through internal consistency (Cronbach's α) and test-retest reliability (ICC).

Main Results:

• The Italian AMSQ demonstrated strong validity, with significant correlations found between AMSQ and other functional scales (ABILHAND, MFIS, FIM).
• Higher Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) scores correlated with worse AMSQ performance, indicating sensitivity to disability.
• The questionnaire exhibited excellent internal consistency (Cronbach's α = 0.98) and test-retest reliability (ICC = 0.96).

Conclusions:

• The Italian version of the AMSQ is a valid and reliable instrument for assessing upper limb function in PwMS.
• This validated questionnaire can aid clinicians in evaluating arm and hand function deficits in Italian PwMS.
• The AMSQ provides a valuable tool for monitoring treatment efficacy and guiding rehabilitation strategies for MS patients.