TEST-RETEST RELIABILITY OF THE ST. GEORGE’S RESPIRATORY QUESTIONNAIRE IN CHRONIC OBSTRUCTIVE PULMONARY DISEASE (COPD) PATIENTS: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW.

Abstract

Background: The St. George's Respiratory Questionnaire (SGRQ) is an established tool for assessing health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). However, the reliability of this tool, particularly its test-retest reliability across different populations, has shown varying results.

Objective: This systematic review aims to evaluate the test-retest reliability of the SGRQ across different studies involving COPD patients and analyzing its consistency in different settings and patient groups.

Methods: A comprehensive search of electronic databases, including PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus, adhering to PRISMA guidelines, identified 8 eligible studies involving 534 COPD patients across various countries and healthcare settings. Data were extracted on study design, patient demographics, disease severity (GOLD stages I-IV), and SGRQ administration. Test-retest reliability was evaluated using intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) and statistical significance was assessed using p-values.

Results: The SGRQ showed moderate to strong test-retest reliability across studies, with ICC values ranging from 0.54 to 0.98, indicating stability over time. Most studies reported reliability across all GOLD stages of COPD, from stable to acute exacerbations. COSMIN quality assessments showed excellent stability in some studies, though inconsistencies were found, particularly in the symptom subscales.

Conclusion: The SGRQ demonstrates strong test-retest reliability for assessing HRQoL in COPD patients. However, variability in the symptom subscale suggests further research is needed across diverse populations and healthcare settings.