Validation of the Filipino Version of the Eustachian Tube Dysfunction Questionnaire-7 (ETDQ-7)

Introduction The Eustachian tube (ET) serves various functions, such as pressure regulation, mucociliary clearance, and middle ear protection. Eustachian Tube Dysfunction (ETD) pertains to a problem with the ventilatory function of the Eustachian tube and is a common condition seen in the ENT clinic. There is currently no gold standard in diagnosing ETDs, but numerous measures are being employed and studied. The Eustachian Tube Dysfunction Questionnaire 7 (ETDQ-7) is the only patient-reported outcome tool to have undergone initial validation tests. It has been translated into different languages, and studies have shown that the ETDQ-7 is a fast, reliable, and easy-to-use tool in the local setting. This tool can also be applied in the Philippine setting and may be used in conjunction with history and clinical findings to diagnose and evaluate the treatment of ETD. Objectives The objective of this study is to translate the Eustachian Tube Dysfunction Questionnaire-7 (ETDQ-7) into the Filipino version and validate the Filipino version of the ETDQ-7. The study also determines the prevalence of Eustachian tube dysfunction among adult Filipinos using the translated version of ETDQ-7. Methods A cross-sectional analytical study was conducted in the Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery (ORL-HNS) of a tertiary hospital. Filipinos aged 18 years and above, with and without signs and symptoms of Eustachian tube dysfunction, with intact tympanic membranes were included in the study. Results The Filipino version of the ETDQ-7 has good internal validity and consistency. For the test-retest reliability of the questionnaire across time, all seven questions and the total score have good reliability. It will give reliable results when repeatedly used over time. Conclusion The Filipino version of the ETDQ-7 is a valid and reliable tool that may serve as an adjunct in diagnosing ET dysfunction among adult Filipinos. Further studies may be needed to evaluate its use in children and patients with comorbid conditions such as ear and sinonasal pathologies.