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Jung YS, Park JH, Kim HJ, Cho YK, Sohn CI, Jeon WK, Kim BI, Park DI. Insufficient knowledge of korean gastroenterologists regarding the vaccination of patients with inflammatory bowel disease. Gut Liver 2014; 8:242-7. [PMID: 24827619 PMCID: PMC4026640 DOI: 10.5009/gnl.2014.8.3.242] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background/Aims There is an increased risk for inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) patients to develop infections due to the use of immunomodulators and biologics. Several infections are preventable by immunizations. This study investigated the knowledge and awareness of Korean gastroenterologists regarding the vaccination of patients with IBD. Methods A self-reported questionnaire was sent by e-mail to the faculty members of tertiary hospitals. Gastroenterologists were asked ten questions regarding the immunization of patients with IBD. A total of 56 gastroenterologists completed the questionnaire. Results A majority of gastroenterologists (>60%) had rarely or never recorded an immunization history from their patients with IBD. Moreover, 50% to 70% of the gastroenterologists did not know that live vaccines should be avoided in immunosuppressed patients. The most commonly mentioned resistance to vaccinations was "the lack of concern and knowledge regarding vaccination." Gastroenterologists more frequently asked about the immunization history of influenza, pneumococcal, hepatitis A, and hepatitis B vaccines and recommended these vaccines more often than others. Conclusions Korean gastroenterologists' awareness and knowledge regarding the vaccination of patients with IBD were very poor. Intensive educational programs on immunization guidelines directed toward gastroenterologists who care for patients with IBD are required to ensure that these patients receive the necessary vaccinations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoon Suk Jung
- Department of Internal Medicine, Kangbuk Samsung Hospital, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jung Ho Park
- Department of Internal Medicine, Kangbuk Samsung Hospital, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Hong Joo Kim
- Department of Internal Medicine, Kangbuk Samsung Hospital, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Yong Kyun Cho
- Department of Internal Medicine, Kangbuk Samsung Hospital, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Chong Il Sohn
- Department of Internal Medicine, Kangbuk Samsung Hospital, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Woo Kyu Jeon
- Department of Internal Medicine, Kangbuk Samsung Hospital, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Byung Ik Kim
- Department of Internal Medicine, Kangbuk Samsung Hospital, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Dong Il Park
- Department of Internal Medicine, Kangbuk Samsung Hospital, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
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Abstract
An increasing proportion of patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) are treated with biological medications. The risk of infectious complications remains a significant concern in patients treated with biologics. Treatment with biological agents in IBD is generally safe, but there may be an increased risk of certain opportunistic infections. Some of the infectious risks are class specific, whereas others are a common concern for all biologics. A careful screening, surveillance, and immunization program, in accordance with available guidelines, is important to minimize any risk of infectious complications.
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Abstract
Infliximab is widely used in both inducing and maintaining remission of patients with Crohn's disease (CD). The efficacy of infliximab has been undoubtedly proven; however, various opportunistic infections have emerged. Herpes virus infections (being a type of opportunistic infection) in CD patients treated with infliximab alone with no other concomitant medications are, however, rare and have not aroused enough attention. Gastroenterologists have limited knowledge of the immunization status of patients with CD, and rarely do they take an adequate immunization history before immunosuppressive therapy. Here we report two herpes zoster (HZ) events in CD patients while using infliximab alone: in the first case, HZ occurred during the patient's 12th infusion for maintance therapy, and in the second case, HZ occurred during the patient's first course of infliximab after surgery for therapy of inducing remission. We hope to increase the gastroenterologists' awareness of this potential infection in CD patients during treatment with infliximab.
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Cullen G, Baden RP, Cheifetz AS. Varicella zoster virus infection in inflammatory bowel disease. Inflamm Bowel Dis 2012; 18:2392-403. [PMID: 22434654 DOI: 10.1002/ibd.22950] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2012] [Accepted: 02/20/2012] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The risk of viral infection is increased in immunosuppressed inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) patients. Varicella zoster virus (VZV) is of particular interest in IBD because of a number of reports of severe, disseminated, and occasionally fatal varicella infection in immunosuppressed IBD patients. METHODS We reviewed publications describing VZV infection in IBD patients and combined these data with a review of the current literature relating to both primary and secondary varicella in IBD. RESULTS Twenty cases of primary varicella infection and 32 cases of herpes zoster infection have been reported in IBD. Additional cases are reported in clinical trials. The risk of VZV infection is increased with all immunosuppressants used in IBD, but corticosteroids and combination immunosuppression appear to be a particular risk. CONCLUSIONS Healthcare providers need to be aware of the various manifestations of primary and secondary VZV infection in immunosuppressed IBD patients. Patients should be screened for VZV immunity and vaccinated prior to commencing immunosuppression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Garret Cullen
- Center for Inflammatory Bowel Disease, Division of Gastroenterology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.
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Kopylov U, Levin A, Mendelson E, Dovrat S, Book M, Eliakim R, Ben-Horin S. Prior varicella zoster virus exposure in IBD patients treated by anti-TNFs and other immunomodulators: implications for serological testing and vaccination guidelines. Aliment Pharmacol Ther 2012; 36:145-50. [PMID: 22612376 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2036.2012.05150.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2012] [Revised: 02/23/2012] [Accepted: 05/04/2012] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Varicella zoster virus (VZV) is a severe and preventable infection in immunosuppressed IBD patients. ECCO guidelines recommend VZV immunisation in patients with negative VZV exposure history. The value of patient-reported VZV exposure history for prediction of seropositivity in IBD patients remains unknown. Moreover, data on VZV immunity in adult IBD patients or accuracy of VZV serological testing under immunomodulator treatment is sparse. AIMS The primary aim was to determine the prevalence of seropositivity for VZV-IgG in immunomodulator-treated IBD patients. A secondary aim was to establish the value of patient-reported history of past VZV infection for prediction of immunity, to validate the current vaccination strategy. METHODS History of VZV-related illness was accessed by epidemiological questionnaire, and serological testing for VZV-IgG was performed. Serum anti-TNF medications levels were measured when applicable. RESULTS One hundred twenty one IBD (86% Crohn's disease, mean age 37 ± 12.8) patients were included in the study. Immunomodulator therapy was received by 87% (anti-TNFs- 71%) of the patients. Previous exposure to VZV was reported by 104 patients, and 97/104 (93%) were VZV-IgG seropositive. Seventeen patients, all seropositive, reported negative exposure history. The calculated positive and negative predictive values for the reported history of VZV exposure were 93% and 0% respectively. CONCLUSIONS Negative history of VZV exposure is a poor predictor of seronegativity. History-positive patients may still be seronegative and exposed to VZV infection. We suggest serological testing of all IBD patients with subsequent immunisation of the seronegative patients before initiation of immunosuppressive therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- U Kopylov
- Department of Gastroenterology, Sheba Medical Center, Tel Hashomer, Israel.
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Yeung JH, Goodman KJ, Fedorak RN. Inadequate knowledge of immunization guidelines: a missed opportunity for preventing infection in immunocompromised IBD patients. Inflamm Bowel Dis 2012; 18:34-40. [PMID: 21337671 DOI: 10.1002/ibd.21668] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2010] [Accepted: 01/06/2011] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Immunosuppressive agents, used commonly to treat inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), are associated with an increased risk of infections, including those preventable by immunization. This study aimed to describe physician and patient values and knowledge regarding immunization and immunization histories. METHODS In all, 167 IBD patients and 43 gastroenterologists completed mail-out questionnaires. Patients were asked 15 questions about their immunization histories and attitudes towards immunization. Gastroenterologists were asked nine questions about immunization for the immunocompromised host. RESULTS The questionnaire return rate was 45.7% (43/94) for gastroenterologists and 25.2% (167/661) for patients. Only 14.3% (6/42) of gastroenterologists reported taking an immunization history from most or all of their patients. Only 5.4% (9/167) of patients recalled being asked by their gastroenterologist whether their immunizations were up to date, and just 0.6% (1/164) recalled being asked for a detailed immunization history. Overall, 21.7% (35/161) of patients had refused to be immunized in the past; 18.6% (8/43) of gastroenterologists did not know if up-to-date immunizations were important prior to starting immunosuppressive therapy. Of note, 23.1% (9/39) of gastroenterologists and 46.7% (35/161) of patients did not know whether live vaccines should be avoided by those in the immunosuppressed state, and 42.9% (18/43) of gastroenterologists acknowledged they did not know which specific immunizations should be avoided for immunosuppressed patients. CONCLUSIONS Gastroenterologists have limited knowledge of their IBD patients' immunization status and rarely take an adequate immunization history. Substantial proportions of IBD patients and gastroenterologists lack adequate knowledge of established immunization guidelines prior to initiation of immunosuppressive therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- James H Yeung
- Division of Gastroenterology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
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Agarwal N, Ollington K, Kaneshiro M, Frenck R, Melmed GY. Are immunosuppressive medications associated with decreased responses to routine immunizations? A systematic review. Vaccine 2011; 30:1413-24. [PMID: 22197580 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2011.11.109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2011] [Revised: 11/26/2011] [Accepted: 11/29/2011] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Long-term immunosuppressive medications are being used more commonly for a variety of medical conditions, including immune-mediated diseases and organ transplantation. While these medications are often necessary, they are associated with an increased risk of serious infections. Vaccination may be a way to prevent a variety of infections but vaccine responses among patients receiving immunosuppressive therapies have been variable. PURPOSE To systematically review the literature describing immune responses among patients on immunosuppressive therapies to vaccinations including influenza, pneumococcal, meningococcal, hepatitis A and B, tetanus toxoid, pertussis, varicella, and zoster. DATA SOURCES English language citations in the MEDLINE and EMBASE databases from 1985 to 2010. STUDY SELECTION Two reviewers independently screened titles and abstracts to identify prospective, controlled studies reporting pre- and post-vaccination titers of recommended vaccines in patients receiving long-term immunosuppressive therapies for full-text review. DATA EXTRACTION Three reviewers independently assessed study characteristics including treatment regimens and pre- and post-vaccination titers. DATA SYNTHESIS Of the 972 identified titles, fifteen met inclusion criteria. Ten studies assessed the effects of immunosuppressive medications on responses to influenza vaccine, four studies investigated responses following pneumococcal vaccination, and one study assessed both influenza and pneumococcal vaccination. Five of the studies that evaluated influenza vaccination showed partially diminished responses among individuals receiving immunosuppressive therapies, while one of the pneumococcal vaccine studies showed significantly decreased responses following vaccination. Patients treated with more than one immunosuppressive medication were the least likely to respond to vaccination. LIMITATIONS The heterogeneity of reported outcomes limits generalizeability. CONCLUSIONS Immunosuppressive therapy, particularly combination regimens, may blunt response to influenza and pneumococcal vaccinations. To ensure the best chance of response, immunizations should be administered prior to initiation of immunosuppressive medications whenever possible.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nikhil Agarwal
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, United States
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Pestre V, Mouthon L. Manifestations pulmonaires associées aux immunosuppresseurs utilisés dans les transplantations et les maladies auto-immunes. Presse Med 2010; 39:878-86. [DOI: 10.1016/j.lpm.2010.04.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2010] [Accepted: 04/09/2010] [Indexed: 10/19/2022] Open
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Courby S, Fabre B, Salameire D, Gaulard P, Hincky-Vitrat V, Gressin R, Bonaz B, Epaulard O. Multifocal polyclonal Epstein-Barr virus-associated B-cell lymphoproliferative disorder secondary to azathioprine therapy successfully treated with rituximab. Leuk Lymphoma 2010; 51:174-7. [PMID: 20001240 DOI: 10.3109/10428190903402029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
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Monaghan TM, Norton B. Varicella pneumonia in an immunocompromised inflammatory bowel disease patient. Inflamm Bowel Dis 2010; 16:364-5. [PMID: 19408341 DOI: 10.1002/ibd.20980] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/09/2022]
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Rahier JF, Ben-Horin S, Chowers Y, Conlon C, De Munter P, D'Haens G, Domènech E, Eliakim R, Eser A, Frater J, Gassull M, Giladi M, Kaser A, Lémann M, Moreels T, Moschen A, Pollok R, Reinisch W, Schunter M, Stange EF, Tilg H, Van Assche G, Viget N, Vucelic B, Walsh A, Weiss G, Yazdanpanah Y, Zabana Y, Travis SPL, Colombel JF. European evidence-based Consensus on the prevention, diagnosis and management of opportunistic infections in inflammatory bowel disease. J Crohns Colitis 2009; 3:47-91. [PMID: 21172250 DOI: 10.1016/j.crohns.2009.02.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 366] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2008] [Revised: 02/24/2009] [Accepted: 02/25/2009] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
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Melmed GY, Ippoliti AF, Papadakis KA, Tran TT, Birt JL, Lee SK, Frenck RW, Targan SR, Vasiliauskas EA. Patients with inflammatory bowel disease are at risk for vaccine-preventable illnesses. Am J Gastroenterol 2006; 101:1834-40. [PMID: 16817843 DOI: 10.1111/j.1572-0241.2006.00646.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 234] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Patients with chronic, immune-mediated conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) are often treated with long-term immunosuppressive therapies, potentially increasing their risk of developing an infection. Empiric data suggest that vaccines are underutilized in immunocompromised patients, despite published guidelines recommending their use. We aimed to assess exposure risk and immunization status among patients receiving care in an IBD specialty clinic. METHODS Patients completed a self-administered, pretested, structured questionnaire during a routine visit for the management of IBD. Survey questions related to medical and immunization histories, and exposures to known risk factors for influenza, pneumococcus, viral hepatitis, and varicella. Additionally, in a subgroup of patients who agreed to donate a sample of blood, immune status to hepatitis A (HAV), hepatitis B (HBV), and varicella was determined. RESULTS Two hundred four patients were asked to participate in the study; 169 completed surveys and comprised the study population. Mean age was 35 yr (range 13-75 yr). One hundred forty-six respondents (86%) reported current or prior use of immunosuppressive medications. Only 45% of respondents recalled tetanus immunization within the past 10 yr, 41 (28%) reported regularly receiving flu shots, and 13 (9%) reported having received pneumococcal vaccine. The most common reasons for nonimmunization with influenza included lack of awareness (49%) and concern for side effects (18%). Responses indicated that 75 (44%) patients were at risk for HBV but only 47 (28%) had been vaccinated against the infection; of patients with previous HBV vaccination, only three of nine (33%) had measurable antibodies against hepatitis B surface antigen. CONCLUSIONS Immunization against selected vaccine-preventable illnesses was uncommon in patients with IBD, despite the presence of significant risk factors. Efforts to improve immunization status among patients with IBD and other chronic, immune-mediated conditions are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gil Y Melmed
- Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center Los Angeles, California 90048, USA
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Siegel CA, Sands BE. Review article: practical management of inflammatory bowel disease patients taking immunomodulators. Aliment Pharmacol Ther 2005; 22:1-16. [PMID: 15963074 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2036.2005.02520.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Azathioprine, mercaptopurine, methotrexate, ciclosporin and tacrolimus all have their respective niches in the treatment of inflammatory bowel disease. These immunomodulators are potent and effective medications; however, they potentially have serious toxicity. To maximize benefit and minimize risk, clinicians must understand the mechanism of action, appropriate indications, range of toxicity and proper dosing of these medications. Furthermore, once initiating therapy, patients need to be monitored appropriately for evidence of efficacy and toxicity. This review includes the rationale behind recommendations for the management and monitoring of patients using immunomodulators. For the purine antagonists--azathioprine and mercaptopurine--the evidence for utility of thiopurine methyltransferase testing and mercaptopurine metabolite monitoring is addressed. The roles of liver biopsy and screening for methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase mutations in patients taking methotrexate are reviewed. With appropriate monitoring, the calcineurin inhibitors--ciclosporin and tacrolimus--can be used safely and effectively. Immunomodulators are important agents for the treatment of Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis, and prescribing clinicians should be comfortable recognizing both their value and their limitations.
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Affiliation(s)
- C A Siegel
- Gastrointestinal Unit and MGH Crohn's and Colitis Center, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA
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Bernal I, Domènech E, García-Planella E, Cabré E, Gassull MA. [Opportunistic infections in patients with inflammatory bowel disease undergoing immunosuppressive therapy]. GASTROENTEROLOGIA Y HEPATOLOGIA 2003; 26:19-22. [PMID: 12525323 DOI: 10.1016/s0210-5705(03)70335-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Immunosuppressive agents (azathioprine, methotrexate) are increasingly being used in the treatment of inflammatory bowel disease. The use of immunosuppressive agents is associated with a greater risk of opportunistic infections, the most frequent of which are those caused by cytomegalovirus and varicella zoster virus. We present four cases of opportunistic infections due to Herpesviruses in patients undergoing immunosuppressive treatment with azathioprine for Crohn's disease. We also review the literature published on this topic. Two patients presented cutaneous varicella complicated by pneumonia and esophagitis respectively, one patient had cutaneous herpes zoster and the other had fatal pneumonia possibly caused by the Herpesvirus. In the first three the clinical course of the infection was favorable after withdrawing immunosuppressant treatment and initiating treatment with aziclovir. In patients Crohn's disease azathioprine treatment increases the risk of opportunistic infection by Herpesvirus. However, in the absence of other factors that increase immunosuppression, these infections usually have a benign course with specific antiviral therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- I Bernal
- Servicio de Aparato Digestivo. Hospital Universitari Germans Trias i Pujol. Badalona. Barcelona. España
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Vergara M, Casellas F, Badia X, Malagelada JR. Assessing the quality of life of household members of patients with inflammatory bowel disease: development and validation of a specific questionnaire. Am J Gastroenterol 2002; 97:1429-37. [PMID: 12094861 DOI: 10.1111/j.1572-0241.2002.05684.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Household members of patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) are impacted in their daily lives by close interaction with chronic illness. However, the effect of IBD on the quality of life of household members has not been evaluated because appropriate instruments to measure it are lacking. The aim of this study was to develop and validate a specific instrument to measure the quality of life of household members of patients with IBD. METHODS Household members were interviewed to generate an initial pool of items. A group of investigators excluded redundant and incomprehensible items, and the resulting preliminary questionnaire was completed by 81 subjects. Further item reduction was performed using the psychometric method. The psychometric properties of the final questionnaire were determined in a group of 106 subjects. RESULTS Of the initial 67 items, 19 were excluded by investigators. The remaining 48 items were answered by 81 household members, and 32 items were excluded by factor analysis. Two others were excluded because of poor comprehension. The definitive questionnaire consisted of 14 items. CONCLUSIONS We have developed and validated a questionnaire to measure the quality of life of household members of IBD patients. It will greatly enhance the possibilities of quantifying the effects of IBD on home life and should become a useful tool in health care planning.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Vergara
- Digestive System Research Unit, Hospital Universitari Vall d'Hebron, Barcelona, Spain
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