Minimal important differences and response shift in health-related quality of life; a longitudinal study in patients with multiple myeloma

Relationship between reasons for intermittent missing patient-reported outcomes data and missing data mechanisms

PURPOSE

Non-response (NR) to patient-reported outcome (PRO) questionnaires may cause bias if not handled appropriately. Collecting reasons for NR is recommended, but how reasons for NR are related to missing data mechanisms remains unexplored. We aimed to explore this relationship for intermittent NRs.

METHODS

Patients with multiple myeloma completed validated PRO questionnaires at enrolment and 12 follow-up time-points. NR was defined as non-completion of a follow-up assessment within seven days, which triggered contact with the patient, recording the reason for missingness and an invitation to complete the questionnaire (denoted "salvage response"). Mean differences between salvage and previous on-time scores were estimated for groups defined by reasons for NR using linear regression with clustered standard errors. Statistically significant mean differences larger than minimal important difference thresholds were interpreted as "missing not at random" (MNAR) mechanism (i.e. assumed to be related to declining health), and the remainder interpreted as aligned with "missing completely at random" (MCAR) mechanism (i.e. assumed unrelated to changes in health).

RESULTS

Most (7228/7534 (96%)) follow-up questionnaires were completed; 11% (802/7534) were salvage responses. Mean salvage scores were compared to previous on-time scores by reason: those due to hospital admission, mental or physical reasons were worse in 10/22 PRO domains; those due to technical difficulties/procedural errors were no different in 21/22 PRO domains; and those due to overlooked/forgotten or other/unspecified reasons were no different in any domains.

CONCLUSION

Intermittent NRs due to hospital admission, mental or physical reasons were aligned with MNAR mechanism for nearly half of PRO domains, while intermittent NRs due to technical difficulties/procedural errors or other/unspecified reasons generally were aligned with MCAR mechanism.

Retrospective Evaluation of Cryopreserved Human Umbilical Cord Tissue Allografts in the Supplementation of Cartilage Defects Associated with Hip Osteoarthritis

Background: Osteoarthritis is a chronic disorder that affects the synovial joints by the progressive loss of articular cartilage. In the hip, the largest weight-bearing joint, the deterioration of articular cartilage and acetabular labrum can cause pain, diminishing the quality of life for patients. This study presents changes in reported pain scales from patients who received Wharton's jelly applications to cartilage deterioration in the hip from the observational retrospective repository at Regenative Labs. Methods: Sixty-nine patients were selected based on inclusion criteria with patient-reported pain scales, including the Numeric Pain Rating Scale and the Western Ontario and McMaster University Osteoarthritis Index, collected at the initial application, 30, and 90-day follow-up visits. Thirteen patients received a second allograft application and had additional follow-up visits at 120 and 180 days. Results: Five of the six scales used showed a statistically significant improvement in average scores across the cohort. The greatest improvements were observed in the NPRS with a 31.36% improvement after 90 days and a 44.64% improvement for patients with two applications after 180 days. The minimal clinically important difference (MCID) was also calculated to determine the perceived value of care for each patient with 44.9% of patients exceeding the MCID and 78.3% reporting at least one level of improvement. Conclusions: The positive outcomes for the patients in this cohort suggest WJ to be a promising alternative care option for patients with structural tissue degeneration in the hip refractory to the current standard of care.

Safety and Efficacy of Wharton's Jelly Connective Tissue Allograft for Rotator Cuff Tears: Findings from a Retrospective Observational Study

With the increasing occurrence of rotator cuff injuries every year, there is a great need for a reliable treatment option. Wharton's Jelly contains several components that can positively impact the replacement and repair of musculoskeletal defects. The overall objective of this study is to evaluate the improvement of patient-reported pain scales after applying Wharton's Jelly (WJ) in rotator cuff defects. Eighty-seven patients with rotator cuff defects who failed at least eight weeks of conservative treatment were selected from the retrospective repository. A total of 2 cc of WJ flowable allograft was applied to the specific affected anatomy, the most common being supraspinatus tendon, biceps tendon insertion, labral tear, and subscapularis tear. No adverse reactions were reported. Statistically significant improvements were found from the initial to Day 90 in all scales. Patient satisfaction was calculated using minimal clinically important differences. No statistically significant differences were found in mean changes between gender, BMI, and age. Scanning electron microscopy images reveal the similarities between the collagen matrix in WJ and the rotator cuff. The significant improvement in patient outcomes coincides with the current literature analyzing WJ applications with other structural defects around the body. WJ is a promising alternative for musculoskeletal defects when the standard of care fails.

Pilot study of a telehealth intervention for personalized self-management for eating symptoms after gastroesophageal cancer surgery

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Following gastric and esophageal cancer surgery, patients often experience significant, prolonged eating-related symptoms. One promising approach to help patients improve their eating-related quality of life (QOL) is through self-management coaching to aid in diet modification. We performed a randomized pilot study of a nutritionist-led telehealth intervention for the self-management of eating after gastroesophageal cancer surgery.

METHODS

Patients who were within 30 days of resuming oral intake after undergoing surgery for gastric and/or esophageal cancer were consented and then randomized to the intervention or usual care. The intervention was performed by a nutritionist trained in self-management coaching and delivered in four telehealth sessions over 4 months. The following outcomes were measured at baseline and at 6 months after baseline: QOL (EORTC QLQC30), weight, body mass index, and sarcopenia.

RESULTS

Fifty-three patients were enrolled. 22/27 usual care and 21/26 intervention patients completed the study for a retention rate of 81%. Differences between the intervention and control groups were not statistically significant, but the intervention group had indications of greater improvements in overall QOL as measured by EORTC QLQC30 Summary Score (8.7 vs. 2.3, p = 0.17) as well as greater improvements in 4/5 functional domains (p > 0.3). The intervention group also had slightly more weight gain (6 kg vs. 3 kg, p = 0.3) and less sarcopenia (3/16 vs. 9/18, p = 0.07).

CONCLUSIONS

This pilot study demonstrated the feasibility and acceptability of a telehealth intervention for self-management of eating symptoms after gastroesophageal cancer surgery. There were trends toward improved overall QOL in the intervention group. A larger study is needed to validate the results.

Health-related quality of life and quality-adjusted progression free survival for carfilzomib and dexamethasone maintenance following salvage autologous stem-cell transplantation in patients with multiple myeloma: a randomized phase 2 trial by the Nordic Myeloma Study Group

BACKGROUND

Decisions regarding maintenance therapy in patients with multiple myeloma should be based on both treatment efficacy and health-related quality of life (HRQL) consequences. In the CARFI trial, patients with first relapse of multiple myeloma underwent salvage autologous stem cell transplantation (salvage ASCT) before randomization to carfilzomib-dexamethasone maintenance therapy (Kd) or observation. The primary clinical endpoint was time to progression, which was extended by 8 months by Kd. The aim of this paper is to present the all HRQL endpoints of the CARFI trial including the HRQL effect of Kd maintenance therapy relative to observation. The primary HRQL endpoint was assessed by EORTC QLQ-C30 Summary score (QLQ-C30-sum) at 8 months follow-up. A key secondary HRQL endpoint was quality-adjusted progression-free-survival (QAPFS).

METHODS

HRQL was assessed with EORTC QLQ-C30, EORTC QLQ-MY20 and FACT/GOG-Ntx at randomization and every second month during follow-up. HRQL data were analyzed with linear mixed effect models until 8 months follow-up. QAPFS per individual was calculated by multiplying progression-free survival (PFS) by two quality-adjustment metrics, the QLQ-C30-sum and EORTC Quality of Life Utility Measure-Core 10 dimensions (QLU-C10D). The QAPFS per treatment group was estimated with the Kaplan-Meier method. P < 0.05 was used for statistical significance, and a between-group minimal important difference of 10 points was interpreted as clinically relevant for the QLQ-C30-sum.

RESULTS

168 patients were randomized. HRQL questionnaire compliance was 93%. For the QLQ-C30-sum, the difference of 4.62 points (95% confidence interval (CI) -8.9: -0.4, p = 0.032) was not clinically relevant. PFS was 19.3 months for the Kd maintenance group and 16.8 months for the observation group; difference = 2.5 months (95% CI 0.5; 4.5). QAPFS based on the QLQ-C30-sum for the Kd maintenance group was 18.0 months (95% CI 16.4; 19.6) and for the observation group 15.0 months (95% CI 13.5; 16.5); difference = 3.0 months (95% CI 0.8-5.3). QAPFS based on the QLU-C10D for the Kd maintenance group was 17.5 months (95% CI 15.9; 19.2) and 14.0 months (95% CI 12.4; 15.5) for the observation group; difference = 3.5 months (95% CI 1.1-5.9).

CONCLUSIONS

Kd maintenance therapy after salvage ASCT did not adversely affect overall HRQL, but adjustment for HRQL reduced the PFS compared to unadjusted PFS. PFS of maintenance therapy should be quality-adjusted to balance the benefits and HRQL impact.

Health-Related Quality of Life in Multiple Myeloma Patients Treated with High- or Low-Dose Lenalidomide Maintenance Therapy after Autologous Stem Cell Transplantation-Results from the LenaMain Trial (NCT00891384)

INTRODUCTION

The LenaMain trial (NCT00891384) reported increased progression-free survival with 25 mg of lenalidomide maintenance compared to 5 mg. Here, we report the patient-reported outcomes.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Scores obtained from the EORTC Quality of Life Questionnaire C30 were analyzed for longitudinal changes from baseline within the groups as well as cross-sectional scores.

RESULTS

Compliance rates were high, with 95.7% at baseline and 70% during maintenance. At study entry, scores were high for functioning and low for symptoms. During maintenance, the median global health status/quality of life (GHS/QoL) was constant, without significant differences over time (median GHS/QoL: 68 at baseline and 58 for Len high and 68 for Len low at 2 years) and between treatment arms (mean change < 2). Similarly, most functional scale domains were constant. Notably, diarrhea increased consistently for both treatment arms (baseline: -1.905 (range: -5.78-1.97); end of year 2: 16.071 (range: 5.72-26.42); p < 0.05). The subgroup analysis showed that neither disease activity, duration of treatment, nor adverse events affected the health-related quality of life (HR-QoL) or utility.

CONCLUSION

High baseline scores were maintained throughout the trial without significant differences between the Len dosages, which supports continuous treatment with a dose tailored to patients' HR-QoL.

The CALM trial protocol: a randomised controlled trial of a guided self-help cognitive behavioural therapy intervention to reduce dental anxiety in children

BACKGROUND

Globally, around 13% of children experience dental anxiety (DA). This group of patients frequently miss dental appointments, have greater reliance on treatment under general anaesthesia (GA) and have poorer oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) than their non-dentally anxious peers. Recently, a low-intensity cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT)-based, self-help approach has been recommended for management of childhood anxiety disorders. A feasibility study conducted in secondary care found this guided self-help CBT resource reduced DA and a randomised controlled trial was recommended. The present study aims to establish the clinical and cost-effectiveness of a guided self-help CBT intervention to reduce DA in children attending primary dental care sites compared to usual care.

METHODS

This 4-year randomised controlled trial will involve 600 children (aged 9-16 years) and their parent/carers in 30 UK primary dental care sites. At least two dental professionals will participate in each site. They will be assigned, using random allocation, to receive the CBT training and deliver the intervention or to deliver usual care. Children with DA attending these sites, in need of treatment, will be randomly allocated to be treated either by the intervention (CBT) or control (usual care) dental professional. Children will complete questionnaires relating to DA, OHRQoL and HRQoL before treatment, immediately after treatment completion and 12 months post-randomisation. Attendance, need for sedation/GA and costs of the two different approaches will be compared. The primary outcome, DA, will be measured using the Modified Child Dental Anxiety Scale. Scores will be compared between groups using a linear mixed model.

DISCUSSION

Treating dentally anxious patients can be challenging and costly. Consequently, these children are frequently referred to specialist services for pharmacological interventions. Longer waiting times and greater travel distances may then compound existing healthcare inequalities. This research will investigate whether the intervention has the potential to reduce DA and improve oral health outcomes in children over their life-course, as well as upskilling primary dental healthcare professionals to better manage this patient group.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

This clinical trial has been registered with an international registry and has been allocated an International Standard Randomised Controlled Trial Number (ISRCTN27579420).

Screening and Assessment of Cancer-Related Fatigue: A Clinical Practice Guideline for Health Care Providers

Cancer-related fatigue (CRF) is the most common side effect of cancer treatment. Regular surveillance is recommended, but few clinical practice guidelines transparently assess study bias, quality, and clinical utility in deriving recommendations of screening and assessment methods. The purpose of this clinical practice guideline (CPG) is to provide recommendations for the screening and assessment of CRF for health care professions treating individuals with cancer. Following best practices for development of a CPG using the Appraisal of Guidelines for Research and Evaluation (AGREE) Statement and Emergency Care Research Institute (ECRI) Guidelines Trust Scorecard, this CPG included a systematic search of the literature, quality assessment of included evidence, and stakeholder input from diverse health care fields to derive the final CPG. Ten screening and 15 assessment tools supported by 114 articles were reviewed. One screen (European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer-Quality of Life Questionnaire-30 Core Questionnaire) and 3 assessments (Piper Fatigue Scale-Revised, Functional Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy-Fatigue, and Patient Reported Outcome Measurement Information System [PROMIS] Fatigue-SF) received an A recommendation ("should be used in clinical practice"), and 1 screen and 5 assessments received a B recommendation ("may be used in clinical practice"). Health care providers have choice in determining appropriate screening and assessment tools to be used across the survivorship care continuum. The large number of tools available to screen for or assess CRF may result in a lack of comprehensive research evidence, leaving gaps in the body of evidence for measurement tools. More research into the responsiveness of these tools is needed in order to adopt their use as outcome measures.

IMPACT

Health care providers should screen for and assess CRF using one of the tools recommended by this CPG.

Detection of response shift in health-related quality of life studies: a systematic review

Background

Response Shift (RS) refers to the idea that an individual may undergo changes in its health-related quality of life (HRQOL). If internal standard, values, or reconceptualization of HRQOL change over time, then answer to the same items by the same individuals may not be comparable over time. Traditional measures to evaluate RS is prone to bias and strong methodologies to study the existence of this phenomenon is required. The objective is to systematically identify, analyze, and synthesize the existing and recent evidence of statistical methods used for RS detection in HRQOL studies.

Methods

The analysis of selected studies between January 2010 and July 2020 was performed through a systematic review in MEDLINE/PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, PsycINFO and Google Scholar databases. The search strategy used the terms “Health-Related Quality of Life” and “Response Shift” using the filters “Humans”, “Journal Article”, “English” and “2010/01/01–2020/07/31”. The search was made in August 2020.

Results

After considering the inclusion and exclusion criteria, from the total selected articles (675), 107 (15.9%) of the publications were included in the analysis. From these, 79 (71.0%) detected the existence of RS and 86 (80.4%) only used one detection method. The most used methods were Then Test (n = 41) and Oort’s Structural Equation Models (SEM) (n = 35). Other method used were Multiple Lineal Regression (n = 7), Mixed-Effect Regression (n = 6), Latent Trajectory Analysis (n = 6), Item Response Theory (n = 6), Logistics Regression (n = 5), Regression and Classification Trees (n = 4) and Relative Importance Method (n = 4). Most of these detected recalibration, including Then Test (n = 27), followed by Oort’s SEM that detected the higher combination of RS types: recalibration (n = 24), reprioritization (n = 13) and reconceptualization (n = 7).

Conclusions

There is a continuous interest of studying RS detection. Oort’s SEM becomes the most versatile method in its capability for detecting RS in all different types. Despite results from previous systematic reviews, same methods have been used during the last years. We observed the need to explore other alternative methods allowing same detection capacity with robust and highly precise methodology. The investigation on RS detection and types requires more study, therefore new opportunity grows to continue attending this phenomenon through a multidisciplinary perspective.

Population pharmacokinetic and exposure-response analyses of elotuzumab plus pomalidomide and dexamethasone for relapsed and refractory multiple myeloma

Purpose

Elotuzumab plus pomalidomide/dexamethasone (E-Pd) demonstrated efficacy and safety in relapsed and refractory multiple myeloma (RRMM). The clinical pharmacology of elotuzumab [± lenalidomide/dexamethasone (Ld)] was characterized previously. These analyses describe elotuzumab population pharmacokinetics (PPK), the effect of Pd, and assess elotuzumab exposure–response relationships for efficacy and safety in patients with RRMM.

Methods

A previously established PPK model was updated with E-Pd data from the phase 2 ELOQUENT-3 study (NCT02654132). The dataset included 8180 serum concentrations from 440 patients with RRMM from 5 clinical trials. Elotuzumab PK parameter estimates were used to generate individual daily time-varying average concentrations (daily C_avg) for multi-variable time-to-event exposure–response analyses of progression-free survival (PFS) and time to the first occurrence of grade 3 + adverse events (AEs) in RRMM.

Results

Elotuzumab PK were well-described by a two-compartment model with parallel linear and Michaelis–Menten elimination from the central compartment (V_max) and non-renewable target-mediated elimination from the peripheral compartment (K_int). Co-administration with Pd resulted in a 19% and 51% decrease in elotuzumab linear clearance and K_int, respectively, versus Ld; steady-state exposures were similar. V_max increased with increasing serum M-protein. Hazard ratios (95% confidence intervals) for daily C_avg were 0.9983 (0.9969–0.9997) and 0.9981 (0.9964–0.9998) for PFS and grade 3 + AEs, respectively.

Conclusions

The PPK model adequately described the data and was appropriate for determining exposures for exposure–response analyses. There were no clinically relevant differences in elotuzumab exposures between Pd and Ld backbones. In ELOQUENT-3, increasing elotuzumab daily C_avg prolonged PFS without increasing grade 3 + AEs.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s00280-021-04365-4.

Hematological Malignancy Specific Patient-Reported Outcome Measure (HM-PRO): Construct Validity Study

BACKGROUND

Validity is the ability of an instrument to measure what it claims to measure. It means the degree to which the empirical evidence supports the trustworthiness of interpretations based on the calculated scores. The hematological malignancy (HM) specific patient reported outcome measure (HM-PRO), is a newly developed instrument for use in daily clinical practice as well as in research. This study, provides the evidence for construct validity of the HM-PRO, specifically focusing on the convergent and divergent validity compared to the other established instruments used in hematology.

METHODS

This validation study adopted a prospective cross-sectional design where a heterogeneous group of patients diagnosed with different HMs and different disease state were recruited. A total of 905 patients were recruited from seven secondary care hospitals in the UK and online through five patient organizations. Patients were asked to complete the HM-PRO and other cancer specific PRO's, FACT-G and EORTC QLQ C-30. Data analysis was performed using IBM SPSS 23 statistical software.

RESULTS

A total of 486 males (53.7%) and 419 females (46.3%), with a mean age of 64.3 (± 12.4) years and mean time since diagnosis of 4.6 ( ± 5.2) were recruited. The total score of Part A of the HM-PRO highly correlated with the five functional scales of the EORTC QLQ-C30 (Physical = -0.71, Role = -0.72, Emotional = -0.64, Cognitive = -0.58, Social = -0.74-p < 0.001). With respect to correlation with FACT-G, the total score of Part A of the HM-PRO highly correlated with Physical (-0.74), Emotional (-0.57), Functional (-0.66) domains and overall score of FACT-G (-0.74). Similarly, the total score of Part B of the HM-PRO highly correlated with three symptoms scales of EORTC QLQ-C30 (Fatigue scale = -0.74, Nausea and Vomiting = -0.52, Pain = -0.59-p < 0.001) and individual symptom items (Dyspnea = 0.51, Insomnia= 0.43, Appetite loss = 0.54-p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

The construct validity evidence presented in this research is a testimony to the HM-PRO's ability to measure HRQoL issues which it intends to measure. This is of utmost importance when a PRO is used in routine clinical practice so that the interpretation of the scores or response to an individual item is understood by the clinicians/nurses as intended by the patients.

How is the minimal clinically important difference established in health-related quality of life instruments? Review of anchors and methods

Background

The aim of this systematic review is to describe the different types of anchors and statistical methods used in estimating the Minimal Clinically Important Difference (MCID) for Health-Related Quality of Life (HRQoL) instruments.

Methods

PubMed and Google scholar were searched for English and French language studies published from 2010 to 2018 using selected keywords. We included original articles (reviews, meta-analysis, commentaries and research letters were not considered) that described anchors and statistical methods used to estimate the MCID in HRQoL instruments.

Results

Forty-seven papers satisfied the inclusion criteria. The MCID was estimated for 6 generic and 18 disease-specific instruments. Most studies in our review used anchor-based methods (n = 41), either alone or in combination with distribution-based methods. The most common applied anchors were non-clinical, from the viewpoint of patients. Different statistical methods for anchor-based methods were applied and the Change Difference (CD) was the most used one. Most distributional methods included 0.2 standard deviations (SD), 0.3 SD, 0.5 SD and 1 standard error of measurement (SEM). MCID values were very variable depending on methods applied, and also on clinical context of the study.

Conclusion

Multiple anchors and methods were applied in the included studies, which lead to different estimations of MCID. Using several methods enables to assess the robustness of the results. This corresponds to a sensitivity analysis of the methods. Close collaboration between statisticians and clinicians is recommended to integrate an agreement regarding the appropriate method to determine MCID for a specific context.

Quality of life is maintained with ixazomib maintenance in post-transplant newly diagnosed multiple myeloma: The TOURMALINE-MM3 trial

OBJECTIVES

Health-related quality of life (HRQoL) is particularly important during maintenance therapy (MT) in newly diagnosed multiple myeloma post-transplant, when disease symptoms are limited.

METHODS

We assessed HRQoL in patients randomised to 26 cycles of MT (ixazomib vs placebo) in TOURMALINE-MM3 (NCT02181413).

RESULTS

The characteristics at study entry were well-balanced between ixazomib (n = 386) and placebo (n = 251) arms. At study entry, EORTC QLQ-C30 and MY20 scores were high for functional scales and low for symptom scales and were comparable with those of the general population. Changes in subscale scores across intervals, analysed over 30 four-week intervals using a linear mixed-effects model, were generally small and similar between arms for the EORTC QLQ-C30 Global Health Status/QoL, Physical Functioning, and Pain subscales and EORTC QLQ-MY20 Disease Symptoms subscale and Peripheral Neuropathy item. EORTC QLQ-C30 Nausea/Vomiting and Diarrhoea subscales were consistently worse for ixazomib than for placebo, in line with the ixazomib toxicity profile. Even when least-squares mean differences between arms were statistically significant, none reached the established minimal important clinical difference of 10 in multiple myeloma.

CONCLUSIONS

In addition to improvement in progression-free survival with ixazomib, HRQoL was maintained in both arms. Active treatment with ixazomib did not have an adverse impact on HRQoL.

PERCEPT myeloma: a protocol for a pilot randomised controlled trial of exercise prehabilitation before and during autologous stem cell transplantation in patients with multiple myeloma

INTRODUCTION

Myeloma, a blood cancer originating from plasma cells, is the most common indication for autologous stem cell transplantation (SCT). Patients with myeloma undergoing autologous SCT (ASCT) experience treatment-related morbidity and reduction in function and well-being for many months post-treatment. Interventions targeting physical functioning delivered prior to and during SCT have shown promising results in mixed haematological populations and may offer a non-pharmacological solution to physically optimising and preparing patients for SCT. The aim of this study is to investigate the feasibility of a physiotherapist-led exercise intervention as an integral part of the myeloma ASCT pathway at a UK tertiary centre.

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

PERCEPT is a single-site, pilot randomised controlled trial of an exercise intervention embedded within the myeloma ASCT pathway, compared with usual care. The primary study end points will be feasibility measures of study and intervention delivery including recruitment rates, acceptability of intervention, study completion rate and any adverse events. Secondary end points will evaluate differences between the exercise intervention group and the usual care control group in cancer-related fatigue, quality of life, functional capacity (6 min walk test; handheld dynamometry; a timed sit-to-stand test) and objective and self-reported physical activity. Outcomes will be assessed at four time points, approximately 6-8 weeks prior to SCT, on/around day of SCT, on discharge from SCT hospital admission and 12 weeks post-discharge. The exercise intervention comprises of partly supervised physiotherapist-led aerobic and resistance exercise including behaviour change techniques to promote change in exercise behaviour. The primary outcomes from the trial will be summarised as percentages or mean values with 95% CIs. Group differences for secondary outcomes at each time point will be analysed using appropriate statistical models.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

This study has NHS REC approval (Camden and Kings Cross, 19/LO/0204). Results will be disseminated through publication and presentations at haematology and rehabilitation-related meetings.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

ISRCTN15875290.

Understanding the Major Factors Affecting Response Shift Effects on Health-Related Quality of Life: What the Then-Test Measures in a Longitudinal Prostate Cancer Registry

BACKGROUND

Localized prostate cancer (PCa) treatments provide high survival rates, with patients often surviving a decade or longer after treatment. Therefore, treatment options are progressively based on quality of life. The objective of this research was to investigate magnitude of response shift (RS) in health-related quality of life (HRQOL) responses in men with clinically localized PCa using a generic questionnaire and a disease-specific questionnaire in an observational longitudinal patient registry study.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A cohort study was conducted using the Cancer of the Prostate Strategic Urologic Research Endeavor (CaPSURE) database. Patients were annually surveyed using the Medical Outcomes Study Questionnaire Short Form 36 (SF-36) and the UCLA Prostate Cancer Index (PCI) HRQOL measures. A total of 3161 active patients were eligible for a one-off supplemental study asking retrospective HRQOL scores (then-test). We calculated RS, observed change, and RS adjusted change. Statistical difference was determined by t test.

RESULTS

Patients consistently reported higher recalled pretreatment HRQOL compared to baseline scores for SF-36 and PCI, confirming the existence of a RS (P < .05). On average, PCI demonstrated larger RS by a factor of 2 than SF-36. More specific, RS was greater especially in SF-36 physical domains compared to mental health items. PCI measured PCa-specific physical adverse effects only. Patients whose cancer had recurred reported slightly lower SF-36 RS than those whose cancer had not recurred.

CONCLUSION

RS occurrence was measured in both the disease-specific questionnaire and the generic HRQOL questionnaire, demonstrating continued low health and symptom scores after RS adjustment. Therefore, health professionals should adjust for this phenomenon when assessing patient's HRQOL treatment responses, and clinicians should address their continued sexual and urinary functional loss.

Health-related quality of life in transplant ineligible newly diagnosed multiple myeloma patients treated with either thalidomide or lenalidomide-based regimen until progression: a prospective, open-label, multicenter, randomized, phase 3 study

Data on the impact of long term treatment with immunomodulatory drugs (IMiD) on health-related quality of life (HRQoL) is limited. The HOVON-87/NMSG18 study was a randomized, phase 3 study in newly diagnosed transplant ineligible patients with multiple myeloma, comparing melphalan-prednisolone in combination with thalidomide or lenalidomide, followed by maintenance therapy until progression (MPT-T or MPR-R). The EORTC QLQ-C30 and MY20 questionnaires were completed at baseline, after three and nine induction cycles and six and 12 months of maintenance therapy. Linear mixed models and minimal important differences were used for evaluation. 596 patients participated in HRQoL reporting. Patients reported clinically relevant improvement in global quality of life (QoL), future perspective and role and emotional functioning, and less fatigue and pain in both arms. The latter being of large effect size. In general, improvement occurred after 6–12 months of maintenance only and was independent of the World Health Organisation performance at baseline. Patients treated with MPR-R reported clinically relevant worsening of diarrhea, and patients treated with MPT-T reported a higher incidence of neuropathy. Patients who remained on lenalidomide maintenance therapy for at least three months reported clinically meaningful improvement in global QoL and role functioning at six months, remaining stable thereafter. There were no clinically meaningful deteriorations, but patients on thalidomide reported clinically relevant worsening in neuropathy. In general, HRQoL improves both during induction and maintenance therapy with immunomodulatory drugs. The side effect profile of treatment did not negatively affect global QoL, but it was, however, clinically relevant for the patients. (Clinicaltrials.gov identifier: NTR1630).

The Role of Response-Shift in Studies Assessing Quality of Life Outcomes Among Cancer Patients: A Systematic Review

Objective: Response-shift has been cited as an important measurement consideration when assessing patient reported quality of life (QoL) outcomes over time among patients with severe chronic conditions. Here we report the results of a systematic review of response shift in studies assessing QoL among cancer patients.

Methods: A systematic review using MEDLINE, EMBASE, and PsychINFO along with a manual search of the cited references of the articles selected, was conducted. A quality review was performed using STROBE criteria and reported according to PRISMA guidelines.

Results: A systematic review of 1,487 records published between 1,887 and December 2018 revealed 104 potentially eligible studies, and 35 studies met inclusion criteria for content and quality. The most common cancer patient populations investigated in these studies were breast (18 studies), lung (14 studies), prostate (eight studies), and colorectal (eight studies). Response shift was identified among 34 of the 35 studies reviewed. Effect sizes were reported in 17 studies assessing QoL outcomes among cancer patients; 12 of which had negligible to small effect sizes, four reported medium effect sizes which were related to physical, global QoL, pain, and social (role) functioning and one reported a large effect size (fatigue). The most prevalent method for assessing response shift was the then-test, which is prone to recall bias, followed by the pre-test and post-test method. Given the heterogeneity among the characteristics of the samples and designs reviewed, as well as the overall small to negligible effect sizes for the effects reported, conclusions stating that changes due to internal cognitive shifts in perceived QoL should account for changes observed in cancer patients' QoL outcomes should be interpreted with caution.

Conclusion: Further work is needed in this area of research. Future studies should control for patient characteristics, time elapsed between diagnosis and baseline assessment and evaluate their contribution to the presence of response shift. Time between assessments should include short and longer periods between assessments and evaluate whether the presence of response shift holds over time. Possible avenues for inquiry for future investigation are discussed.

Truthfulness in patient-reported outcomes: factors affecting patients' responses and impact on data quality

The use of patient-reported outcome (PRO) measures in research and clinical care has expanded dramatically, reflective of an increasing recognition of patient-centeredness as an important aspect of high-quality health care. Given this rapid expansion, ensuring that data collected using PRO measures is of high quality is crucial for their continued successful application. Because of the subjective nature of the outcomes assessed, there are many factors that may influence patients' responses and thus challenge the overall quality of the data. In this review, we discuss the multiple factors that may affect patients' responses on PRO measures. These factors may arise during instrument development and administration or secondary to patient-level response behaviors. We further examine the relevant literature to delineate how these factors may impact data quality and review methods for accounting for these factors. Consideration of such factors is critical to ensuring data collected truthfully reflects patients' evaluations and provides accurate conclusions.

Reconsidering the minimally important difference: evidence of instability over time and across groups

BACKGROUND CONTEXT

Underlying cognitive factors have been found to influence patients' symptom experience. Current evidence suggests that concomitant changes in appraisal must be taken into account to accurately interpret change as measured by standard spine patient-reported outcomes (PROs).

PURPOSE

To investigate changes in patients' minimally important differences (MID) over recovery from spinal surgery; whether and how cognitive appraisal processes are implicated in the change trajectories.

STUDY DESIGN/SETTING

Longitudinal cohort study with up to 12 months follow-up.

PATIENT SAMPLE

Surgical patients (n = 167) with a diagnosis of disc herniation or spinal stenosis.

OUTCOME MEASURES

Standard spine patient-reported PROs were used (Rand-36, Oswestry Disability Index, Numerical Rating Scale for pain, PROMIS Pain Impact).

METHODS

This study was funded by the Feldberg Chair in Spinal Research, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre and the authors have no conflicts of interest. MID used an anchor technique and was computed by global assessment of change (GAC) grouping. Participants were binned into groups based on their GAC response patterns at all time points: Consistently better post-surgery, consistently worse post-surgery, and bouncers, whose GAC ratings fluctuate (ie, better-then-worse-then-better; or vice versa). Individuals' longitudinal quality of life (QOL) and appraisal slope scores were computed. QOL-appraisal slopes' correlations were computed by GAC group. Fisher's Z transformation tested the hypothesis that GAC groups differed in the QOL-appraisal relationship over time.

RESULTS

Moderate to large changes are recognized as clinically important in the early stages of recovery (ie, 6 weeks post-surgery), and over time smaller and smaller changes become important. The three pattern groups emphasized and deemphasized different standards of comparison over time, with the Better group emphasizing personal goals and the Worse and Bouncers deemphasizing doctors' input. These group differences translated to differential relationships between PRO change and appraisal changes over time.

CONCLUSIONS

The MID reflects increasingly subtle change over time in PROs. Appraisal may influence how patients experience the same (MID) change over time, with better outcomes associated with emphasizing long-term goals. PRO change seems to be driven by different standards of comparison. Potential avenues for clinical intervention are discussed.

Health-Related Quality of Life and Satisfaction With Health Care: Relation to Clinical Stage in Mexican Patients With Multiple Myeloma

Multiple myeloma (MM) is characterized by bone pain, pathologic fractures, bone destruction, and secondary hypercalcemia, all these conditions impact on health-related quality of life of patients. The objective was to evaluate the global health state and health-related quality of life in a group of patients with MM who attended a tertiary health-care center of the Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social in Mexico, through the questionnaires designed by European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC) quality of life group. Exploratory cross-sectional study in patients with MM treated in a Department of Hematology in a High-Specialty Medical Unit was conducted. Patients older than 18 years of age, men and women, were selected, and their informed written consent was obtained. We included all consecutive cases treated from January 2012 to December 2014. Questionnaires EORTC QLQ-C30, EORTC QLQ-MY20, and EORTC IN-PATSAT-32 were used. We studied 37 patients, 19 (51%) men and 18 women. The mean age was 61.9 years. Twenty-two (59.46%) patients presented with clinical stage III. The mean time for diagnosis was 33.11 months. The most used first-line treatment schedule was melphalan/prednisone/thalidomide (15; 40%). The global health median was 66.67, and symptoms showed a median score of 22.22. Treatment side effects score was 16.67; for general satisfaction, the median score was 75. In conclusion, the patients showed an advanced clinical stage and poor prognosis but had scores higher than 50 in functional scales and lower than 50 for symptom scales. The scores for symptom scales were related to age, renal failure, and disease-free survival. Identification of quality of life and satisfaction of care markers allow for early therapeutic intervention and efficiency and enable a change in quality of life and perception of care in Health Services.

Health-related quality of life in the ENDEAVOR study: carfilzomib-dexamethasone vs bortezomib-dexamethasone in relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma

We examined effects of carfilzomib-dexamethasone (Kd56) versus bortezomib-dexamethasone (Vd) on health-related quality of life (HR-QoL) in relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma (MM) patients from the ENDEAVOR study. HR-QoL was assessed by the European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer QoL Questionnaire (QLQ-C30), MM-specific module (QLQ-MY20), and Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy/Gynecologic Oncology Group-Neurotoxicity (FACT-GOG-Ntx) “Additional Concerns” neurotoxicity subscale. The QLQ-C30 Global Health Status (GHS)/QoL scale and seven prespecified subscales were compared between groups using mixed model for repeated measures. Of 929 randomized patients, 911 with ≥1 post-baseline assessment were included. Kd56 was associated with statistically significant improvements in GHS/QoL, fatigue, pain, side effects, and FACT/GOG-Ntx scores versus Vd, although mean differences did not meet thresholds for clinical significance. The Kd56 group had longer time to deterioration (TTD) in GHS/QoL (median 3.7 versus 2.8 months, p = 0.0046), physical function (5.6 versus 3.7 months, p = 0.0390), nausea/vomiting (17.6 versus 8.2 months, p = 0.0358), side effects (6.4 versus 3.7 months p < 0.0001), and FACT/GOG-Ntx (11.1 versus 5.5 months, p = 0.0004). Overall, Kd56 resulted in statistically but not clinically significant improvements in mean GHS/QoL scores versus Vd. Treatment with Kd56 versus Vd also significantly prolonged TTD in GHS/QoL, physical function, nausea/vomiting, side effects, and FACT/GOG-Ntx.

Distribution- and anchor-based methods to determine the minimally important difference on patient-reported outcome questionnaires in oncology: a structured review

BACKGROUND

Interpretation of differences or changes in patient-reported outcome scores should not only consider statistical significance, but also clinical relevance. Accordingly, accurate determination of the minimally important difference (MID) is crucial to assess the effectiveness of health care interventions, as well as for sample size calculation. Several methods have been proposed to determine the MID. Our aim was to review the statistical methods used to determine MID in patient-reported outcome (PRO) questionnaires in cancer patients, focusing on the distribution- and anchor-based approaches and to present the variability of criteria used as well as possible limitations.

METHODS

We performed a systematic search using PubMed. We searched for all cancer studies related to MID determination on a PRO questionnaire. Two reviewers independently screened titles and abstracts to identify relevant articles. Data were extracted from eligible articles using a predefined data collection form. Discrepancies were resolved by discussion and the involvement of a third reviewer.

RESULTS

Sixty-three articles were identified, of which 46 were retained for final analysis. Both distribution- and anchor-based approaches were used to assess the MID in 37 studies (80.4%). Different time points were used to apply the distribution-based method and the most frequently reported distribution was the 0.5 standard deviation at baseline. A change in a PRO external scale (N = 13, 30.2%) and performance status (N = 15, 34.9%) were the most frequently used anchors. The stability of the MID over time was rarely investigated and only 28.2% of studies used at least 3 assessment timepoints. The robustness of anchor-based MID was questionable in 37.2% of the studies where the minimal number of patients by anchor category was less than 20.

CONCLUSION

Efforts are needed to improve the quality of the methodology used for MID determination in PRO questionnaires used in oncology. In particular, increased attention to the sample size should be paid to guarantee reliable results. This could increase the use of these specific thresholds in future studies.

Impact of elotuzumab treatment on pain and health-related quality of life in patients with relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma: results from the ELOQUENT-2 study

Treatment of relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma (RRMM) aims to prolong survival while maintaining health-related quality of life (HRQoL) by managing disease-related symptoms and complications-one of the most frequent and debilitating being bone pain. In the ELOQUENT-2 study (NCT01239797), which evaluated the addition of elotuzumab to lenalidomide plus dexamethasone versus lenalidomide plus dexamethasone, pain and HRQoL were assessed in patients with relapsed/refractory disease using the Brief Pain Inventory-Short Form (BPI-SF) and the European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC) Quality of Life Questionnaire-Core 30 module (QLQ-C30) and myeloma-specific module (QLQ-MY20). Mean baseline pain scores were low and remained so throughout treatment with both regimens; mean HRQoL scores did not change substantially from baseline. A significantly higher proportion of patients with objective response than without had clinically meaningful improvements in worst pain over two consecutive treatment cycles (29 versus 12%; p < 0.001). Patients with very good partial response (VGPR) or better reported reduced scores for pain severity and worst pain; those with progressive disease reported increased scores for these domains and pain interference. These findings show that previously reported improvements in progression-free survival and response rate with elotuzumab are achieved without detriment to HRQoL, which is maintained over time.

Response shift in quality of life assessment among cancer patients: A study from Iran

Background: During the course of disease, particularly of chronic diseases, changes in internal standards cause certain changes in the estimation of quality of life (QOL). These changes indicate the phenomenon of ‘response shift’. The present study aimed at assessing response shift in different scales of QOL in Iranian cancer patients.

Methods: To assess response shift through the ‘then test’ approach, we asked 211 cancer patients to complete the EORTC QLQ-C30 questionnaire at pretest (at the beginning of the study), posttest (3 months later), and then test (administered immediately after the posttest). Paired t test and Cohen’s effect size were used for comparison.

Results: Response shift was significant in all 4 scales under study, i.e. fatigue, pain, emotional functioning, and general QOL (p<0.001). Fatigue, pain, and global QOL have deteriorated significantly with then test approach and emotional function was significantly improved.

Conclusion: We observed a response shift in Iranian cancer patients in our study. Thus, in light of the multifactorial nature of QOL and the effect of the response shift bias on different aspects of QOL changes, it is of utmost importance to keep this bias in mind when interpreting the results and managing cancer patients’ treatment regimens.

A phase 2 study of modified lenalidomide, bortezomib and dexamethasone in transplant-ineligible multiple myeloma

We sought a regimen that incorporates optimal novel agents and balances efficacy with toxicity in transplant-ineligible multiple myeloma (MM) patients. Our study evaluated modified lenalidomide-bortezomib-dexamethasone (RVD lite) in this population and was administered over a 35-day cycle. Lenalidomide 15 mg was given orally on days 1-21; bortezomib 1·3 mg/m² weekly subcutaneously on days 1, 8, 15 and 22; and dexamethasone 20 mg orally was given on the day of and day after bortezomib for 9 cycles followed by 6 cycles of consolidation with lenalidomide and bortezomib. The primary objective was to evaluate the overall response rate (ORR); secondary objectives included safety, progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS). Fifty-three eligible patients were screened between April 2013 and May 2015; 50 received at least one dose of therapy. Median age at study entry was 73 years (range 65-91). The ORR was 86% and 66% of patients achieved a very good partial response or better. Median PFS was 35·1 months (95% confidence interval 30·9-not reached) and median OS was not reached at a median follow-up of 30 months. Peripheral neuropathy was reported in 31 (62%) patients with only 1 patient experiencing grade 3 symptoms. RVD lite is a well-tolerated and highly effective regimen, with robust PFS and OS, in the transplant-ineligible MM population.

Sensitivity of an oral health-related quality-of-life questionnaire in detecting oral health impairment in preschool children

AIM

This two-year cohort study evaluated whether the Early Childhood Oral Health Impact Scale (ECOHIS) is responsive to detect changes related to dental caries.

DESIGN

Preschool children were examined in 2010 regarding dental caries, and their parents responded to the ECOHIS. After 2 years, 352 children (response rate = 73.6%) were re-examined and a new ECOHIS was responded. Children were categorized according to caries increment (no new caries, 1-3 surfaces with new lesions, and four or more decayed surfaces). The outcome variables were related to the decline of quality of life as determined via ECOHIS: decline, severe decline, and differences between baseline and follow-up scores. Effect sizes (ES) were calculated, and the associations were evaluated through Poisson regression.

RESULTS

ES was small for children with 1-3 new lesions (ES = 0.19) and moderate for children with four or more new carious lesions (ES = 0.61). Children who developed 1-3 new lesions were significantly associated with all outcome variables compared to children with no new lesions, but the associations were stronger for children with four or more new carious lesions.

CONCLUSIONS

The ECOHIS is sensitive to the deterioration of quality of life due to caries increments in preschool children.

Defining a set of standardised outcome measures for newly diagnosed patients with multiple myeloma using the Delphi consensus method: the IMPORTA project

OBJECTIVE

To define a standard set of outcomes and the most appropriate instruments to measure them for managing newly diagnosed patients with multiple myeloma (MM).

METHODS

A literature review and five discussion groups facilitated the design of two-round Delphi questionnaire. Delphi panellists (haematologists, hospital pharmacists and patients) were identified by the scientific committee, the Spanish Program of Haematology Treatments Foundation, the Spanish Society of Hospital Pharmacies and the Spanish Community of Patients with MM. Panellist's perception about outcomes' suitability and feasibility of use was assessed on a seven-point Likert scale. Consensus was reached when at least 75% of the respondents reached agreement or disagreement. A scientific committee led the project.

RESULTS

Fifty-one and 45 panellists participated in the first and second Delphi rounds, respectively. Consensus was reached to use overall survival, progression-free survival, minimal residual disease and treatment response to assess survival and disease control. Panellists agreed to measure health-related quality of life, pain, performance status, fatigue, psychosocial status, symptoms, self-perception on body image, sexuality and preferences/satisfaction. However, panellist did not reach consensus about the feasibility of assessing in routine practice psychosocial status, symptoms, self-perception on body image and sexuality. Consensus was reached to collect patient-reported outcomes through the European Organisation for the Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC) Quality of Life Questionnaire (QLQ) Core questionnaire 30 (C30), three items from EORTC-QLQ-Multiple Myeloma (MY20) and EORTC-QLQ-Breast Cancer (BR23), pain Visual Analogue Scale, Morisky-Green and ad hoc questions about patients' preferences/satisfaction.

CONCLUSIONS

A consensual standard set of outcomes for managing newly diagnosed patients with MM has been defined. The feasibility of its implementation in routine practice will be assessed in a future pilot study.

Patient Reported Outcomes in Optimizing Myeloma Patients' Health-Related Quality of Life

OBJECTIVE

To review the current state of evidence for the use of patient-reported outcomes (PROs) and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in optimizing best supportive care for patients with multiple myeloma (MM).

DATA SOURCES

Peer-reviewed journal articles, research reports, state of the science papers, and clinical guidelines.

CONCLUSION

The diagnosis and treatment of MM negatively impacts an individual's HRQoL. Validated self-report tools that assess HRQoL and other PROs provide an insight into how the treatment or disease is impacting the individual, enabling early recognition of physical and emotional concerns. There is a growing body of evidence to support the use of PROs in assessing HRQoL in MM in clinical care.

IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING PRACTICE

There is a clear benefit for nurses to utilize PROs for patients with MM in order to obtain an understanding of how the treatment effects HRQoL. Thoughtful use of PRO measures can enable nurses to individualize supportive care interventions to meet the specific needs of the patient, and facilitate timely access to optimal symptom support.

A systematic review of health-related quality of life in longitudinal studies of myeloma patients

OBJECTIVES

Multiple myeloma (MM) patients report high symptom burden and reduced health-related quality of life (HRQoL) compared to patients with other haematological malignancies. The aim of this review was to analyse published longitudinal studies including MM patients according to a change in HRQoL scores, which is perceived as beneficial to the patient according to two published guidelines.

METHODS

A literature search was performed May 2016. Publications with longitudinal follow-up using the EORTC QLQ-C30 instrument for HRQoL measurement of physical functioning, global quality of life, fatigue and/or pain were included. An analysis of mean change from baseline was carried out according to minimal important difference (MID).

RESULTS

Large and medium HRQoL improvements were reported during first-line treatments. No clinically beneficial change or deteriorations in scores of global QoL or fatigue were reported during relapse treatment. HRQoL data during maintenance therapy are sparse and inconclusive.

CONCLUSIONS

Guidelines for interpreting changes in HRQoL including definitions of MID have been developed; however, consensus is missing. Improvements in HRQoL are far more likely to occur during first-line compared to relapsed treatment regimens. The background of these findings should be in focus in future studies, and HRQoL measurements should be integrated in maintenance studies.

Prospective longitudinal study on quality of life in relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma patients receiving second- or third-line lenalidomide or bortezomib treatment

Treatment advances for multiple myeloma (MM) that have prolonged survival emphasise the importance of measuring patients' health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in clinical studies. HRQoL/functioning and symptoms of patients with relapsed/refractory MM (RRMM) receiving second- or third-line lenalidomide or bortezomib treatment were measured in a prospective European multicentre, observational study at different time points. At baseline, patients in the lenalidomide cohort were frailer than in the bortezomib cohort with more rapid disease progression at study entry (more patients with Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status >2, shorter time from diagnosis, more chronic heart failure, higher serum creatinine levels, more patients with dialysis required). About 40% of the patients receiving lenalidomide discontinued the study in <6 months while 55% in the bortezomib cohort discontinued. No substantial HRQoL deterioration was observed for the first 6 months in patients with RRMM receiving one or the other treatment. For patients still on treatment at study completion (month 6), only the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality-of-Life Core domains of Diarrhoea and Global Health Status/QoL had worsened in the lenalidomide and bortezomib cohorts, respectively. A clinically meaningful deterioration in HRQoL was more often observed for patients who discontinued the study prior to 6 months in the bortezomib cohort than in the lenalidomide cohort.

Is there a response shift in generic health-related quality of life 6 months after glioma surgery?

Background

Patients may recalibrate internal standards when faced with a serious diagnosis or neurological deficits. This so-called response shift is important to understand in longitudinal health-related quality of life (HRQoL) data, but this is not quantitatively assessed in glioma patients.

Methods

Patients with gliomas were eligible for this HRQoL study. We used EuroQol-5D 3 L to assess generic HRQoL with assessment preoperatively and at 6 months postoperatively. At time of follow-up, patients scored how they considered their baseline HRQoL in retrospect using the same questionnaire (“then-test”).

Results

Seventy-three patients were enrolled between January 2013 and September 2015. With the then-test approach, the mean EQ-5D 3 L index was similar compared to baseline (0.77, mean difference 0.01, 95% CI −0.57 to 0.07, p = 0.82). Also, then-test and baseline VAS score were similar (mean difference 0, 95% CI −7 to 7, p = 0.97). However, a 0.10–0.13 difference from baseline was observed in patients that improved or deteriorated in HRQoL at follow-up according to the then-test EQ-5D 3 L index value. The direction of change as observed from the then-test was similar to the direction of clinical change, reducing the impact of any HRQoL change from baseline to follow-up.

Conclusions

On average, we observed no response shift using EQ-5D 3 L in the selection of glioma patients able to participate at 6 months after surgery. However, following change in HRQoL at follow-up, response shift seems to reduce the effects of HRQoL changes by lowering of internal standards in patients that deteriorate and raising the standards in patients that improve.

Appraisal assessment in patient-reported outcome research: methods for uncovering the personal context and meaning of quality of life

BACKGROUND

Recent work on patient-reported outcomes (PROs) focuses on precise, brief measures, which generally convey little about what an individual's rating actually means. Individual differences in appraisal are important and relevant to PRO research. This paper highlights the advantages of integrating appraisal assessment into clinical research.

METHODS

The most comprehensive method for assessing appraisal, the quality of life (QOL) Appraisal Profile, includes open-ended and multiple choice questions to assess four appraisal parameters: frame of reference, sampling of experience, standards of comparison, and combinatory algorithm. We illustrate with empirical findings four classes of investigation that would benefit from appraisal assessment: methodological, interpretation of change, the backstory of resilience, and clinical applications.

RESULTS

A methodological investigation of HIV/AIDS patients revealed a range of cognitive schemas induced by the then-test response shift detection method, only 15% of which reflected the presumed process invoked. In this same study and in a study of people with multiple sclerosis (MS), interpretation of change in positive versus negative mental-health response shifts was characterized by different appraisal processes. In studying resilience in MS patients, patients with more reserve-building activities were more likely to use appraisals that emphasized the positive and more controllable aspects of their illness experience, as compared to lower-reserve patients. In underserved cancer patients, the QOL Appraisal Profile was used as a clinical interview to articulate current concerns and for personalized treatment decision-making to reduce burden and promote adherence.

CONCLUSIONS

Integrating appraisal assessment can provide a more textured, person-centered understanding of person-factors not captured by standard PROs.

Impact of the occurrence of a response shift on the determination of the minimal important difference in a health-related quality of life score over time

Background

An important challenge of the longitudinal analysis of health-related quality of life (HRQOL) is the potential occurrence of a Response Shift (RS) effect. While the impact of RS effect on the longitudinal analysis of HRQOL has already been studied, few studies have been conducted on its impact on the determination of the Minimal Important Difference (MID). This study aims to investigate the impact of the RS effect on the determination of the MID over time for each scale of both EORTC QLQ-C30 and QLQ-BR23 questionnaires in breast cancer patients.

Methods

Patients with breast cancer completed the EORTC QLQ-C30 and the EORTC QLQ-BR23 questionnaires at baseline (time of diagnosis; T0), three months (T1) and six months after surgery (T2). Four hospitals and care centers participated in this study: cancer centers of Dijon and Nancy, the university hospitals of Reims and Strasbourg At T1 and T2, patients were asked to evaluate their HRQOL change during the last 3 months using the Jaeschke transition question. They were also asked to assess retrospectively their HRQOL level of three months ago.

The occurrence of the RS effect was explored using the then-test method and its impact on the determination of the MID by using the Anchor-based method.

Results

Between February 2006 and February 2008, 381 patients were included of mean age 58 years old (SD = 11). For patients who reported a deterioration of their HRQOL level at each follow-up, an increase of RS effect has been detected between T1 and T2 in 13/15 dimensions of QLQ-C30 questionnaire, and 4/7 dimensions of QLQ-BR23 questionnaire. In contrast, a decrease of the RS effect was observed in 8/15 dimensions of QLQ-C30 questionnaire and in 5/7 dimensions of QLQ-BR23 questionnaire in case of improvement. At T2, the MID became ≥ 5 points when taking into account the RS effect in 10/15 dimensions of QLQ-C30 questionnaire and in 5/7 dimensions of QLQ-BR23 questionnaire.

Conclusions

This study highlights that the RS effect increases over time in case of deterioration and decreases in case of improvement. Moreover, taking the RS into account produces a reliable and significant MID.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12955-016-0569-5) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

The influence of baseline characteristics and disease stage on health-related quality of life in multiple myeloma: findings from six randomized controlled trials

This descriptive, cross-sectional analysis evaluated the impact of baseline characteristics on health-related quality of life (HR-QoL) at different stages of multiple myeloma (MM). The bortezomib clinical-trial programme evaluated HR-QoL early and consistently, producing a large multi-study dataset. Baseline data, captured using the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC) quality-of-life questionnaire (QLQ-C30), were pooled from six bortezomib randomized trials conducted in different disease-stage categories: 'New' (previously untreated; n = 753), 'Early' (1-3 prior therapies; n = 1569) and 'Late' (≥4 prior therapies; n = 239) disease. Mean EORTC global health scores were similar across the three stages. Unexpectedly, emotional, physical and role functioning were higher in the later stages, indicating better perceived health. Symptom scores, including pain, were largely similar or lower in the later versus earlier stages, signifying a lower symptom burden/better symptom control with more advanced disease. Notable variation in HR-QoL was observed by age and clinical parameters within and across stages. Multivariate modelling indicated that opioid use and performance status were key factors driving overall HR-QoL across stages. Using an age-restricted analysis, transplant eligibility had little impact on HR-QoL in New disease patients. Thus, changes in HR-QoL over the treatment course of MM are complex and impacted by baseline factors. A prospective observational international inception cohort study that captures key clinical, HR-QoL and demographic characteristics, along with safety and supportive care information, is needed.

Minimal important differences for fatigue patient reported outcome measures-a systematic review

BACKGROUND

Fatigue is the most frequent symptom reported by patients with chronic illnesses. As a subjective experience, fatigue is commonly assessed with patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs). Currently, there are more than 40 generic and disease-specific PROMs for assessing fatigue in use today. The interpretation of changes in PROM scores may be enhanced by estimates of the so-called minimal important difference (MID). MIDs are not fixed attributes of PROMs but rather vary in relation to estimation method, clinical and demographic characteristics of the study group, etc. The purpose of this paper is to compile published MIDs for fatigue PROMs, spanning diagnostic/patient groups and estimation methods, and to provide information relevant for appraising their appropriateness for use in specific clinical trials and in monitoring fatigue in defined patient groups in routine clinical practice.

METHODS

A systematic search of three databases (Scopus, CINAHL and Cochrane) for studies published between January 2000 to April 2015 using fatigue and variations of the term MID, e.g. MCID, MIC, etc. Two authors screened search hits and extracted data independently. Data regarding MIDs, anchors used and study designs were compiled in tables.

RESULTS

Included studies (n = 41) reported 60 studies or substudies estimating MID for 28 fatigue scales, subscales or single item measures in a variety of diagnostic groups and study designs. All studies used anchor-based methods, 21/60 measures also included distribution-based methods and 17/60 used triangulation of methods. Both similarities and dissimilarities were seen within the MIDs.

CONCLUSIONS

Magnitudes of published MIDs for fatigue PROMs vary considerably. Information about the derivation of fatigue MIDs is needed to evaluate their applicability and suitability for use in clinical practice and research.

Best (but oft-forgotten) practices: expressing and interpreting associations and effect sizes in clinical outcome assessments

This article reviews methods used to facilitate the interpretation and evaluation of group-level differences in clinical outcome assessments. These methods complement and supplement tests of statistical significance. Examples, including studies in nutrition, are used to illustrate the application of the interpretation methods for group-level comparisons from experimental or observational studies. In addition, specific pitfalls of evaluating change in meta-analysis studies are described. A set of recommendations is provided. This review is intended as an introduction for the novice and as a refresher for the experienced researcher.

Best (but oft-forgotten) practices: expressing and interpreting associations and effect sizes in clinical outcome assessments

This article reviews methods used to facilitate the interpretation and evaluation of group-level differences in clinical outcome assessments. These methods complement and supplement tests of statistical significance. Examples, including studies in nutrition, are used to illustrate the application of the interpretation methods for group-level comparisons from experimental or observational studies. In addition, specific pitfalls of evaluating change in meta-analysis studies are described. A set of recommendations is provided. This review is intended as an introduction for the novice and as a refresher for the experienced researcher.

Pomalidomide and Low-Dose Dexamethasone Improves Health-Related Quality of Life and Prolongs Time to Worsening in Relapsed/Refractory Patients With Multiple Myeloma Enrolled in the MM-003 Randomized Phase III Trial

BACKGROUND

Health-related quality of life (HRQoL) is an important element for consideration in treatment decisions in patients with relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma (RRMM). The pivotal MM-003 (A Phase 3, Multicenter, Randomized, Open-Label Study to Compare the Efficacy and Safety of Pomalidomide in Combination With Low-Dose Dexamethasone vs. High-Dose Dexamethasone in Patients With Refractory Multiple Myeloma or Relapsed and Refractory Multiple Myeloma and Companion Study [NIMBUS]) randomized, open-label, multicenter, phase III trial demonstrated improved progression-free survival (PFS) and prolonged overall survival (OS) with pomalidomide (POM) plus low-dose dexamethasone (POM + LoDEX) versus high-dose dexamethasone (HiDEX) in patients with RRMM in whom lenalidomide (LEN) and bortezomib (BORT) had failed. MM-003 also investigated HRQoL as a predefined secondary end point.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Recruited patients (n = 455) were refractory to their last treatment and had failed LEN and BORT after ≥ 2 consecutive cycles of each (alone or in combination). Eight clinically relevant and validated HRQoL domains from the European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC) QLQ-C30, EORTC QLQ-MY20, and EQ-5D questionnaires were selected for analysis. Time to symptom worsening based on minimally important differences (MIDs) was calculated.

RESULTS

Clinically meaningful improvements in HRQoL as determined by MIDs, regression analyses, and best response analyses were observed more frequently in patients receiving POM + LoDEX than in those receiving HiDEX. POM + LoDEX significantly extended median time to clinically meaningful worsening in HRQoL versus HiDEX in 4 HRQoL domains and demonstrated a trend in an additional 3 domains. Patients in the HiDEX arm experienced earlier HRQoL deterioration compared with those in the POM + LoDEX arm in each domain analyzed.

CONCLUSION

POM + LoDEX offer good clinical outcomes that lead to improved and prolonged HRQoL compared with HiDEX in patients with RRMM and end-stage disease.

Evaluating the Effectiveness of Website Content Features Using Retrospective Pretest Methodology: An Experimental Test

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

In order to assess website content effectiveness (WCE), investigations have to be made into whether the reception of website contents leads to a change in the characteristics of website visitors or not. Because randomized controlled trials (RCTs) are not always the method of choice, researchers may have to follow other strategies such as using retrospective pretest methodology (RPM), a straightforward and easy-to-implement tool for estimating intervention effects. This article aims to introduce RPM in the context of website evaluation and test its viability under experimental conditions.

METHOD

Building on the idea that RCTs deliver unbiased estimates of the true causal effects of website content reception, I compared the performance of RPM with that of an RCT within the same study. Hence, if RPM provides effect estimates similar to those of the RCT, it can be considered a viable tool for assessing the effectiveness of the website content features under study.

RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS

RPM was capable of delivering comparatively resilient estimates of the effects of a YouTube video and a text feature on knowledge and attitudes. With regard to all of the outcome variables considered, the differences between the sizes of the effects estimated by the RCT and RPM were not significant. Additionally, RPM delivered relatively accurate effect size estimates in most of the cases. Therefore, I conclude that RPM could be a viable alternative for assessing WCE in cases where RCTs are not the preferred method.

Identifying changes in scores on the EORTC-QLQ-C30 representing a change in patients' supportive care needs

PURPOSE

Using health-related quality-of-life measures for patient management requires knowing what changes in scores require clinical attention. We estimated changes on the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality-of-Life-Questionnaire-Core-30 (EORTC-QLQ-C30), representing important changes by comparing to patient-reported changes in supportive care needs.

METHODS

This secondary analysis used data from 193 newly diagnosed cancer patients (63 % breast, 37 % colorectal; mean age 60 years; 20 % male) from 28 Canadian surgical practices. Participants completed the Supportive Care Needs Survey-Short Form-34 (SCNS-SF34) and EORTC-QLQ-C30 at baseline, 3, and 8 weeks. We calculated mean changes in EORTC-QLQ-C30 scores associated with improvement, worsening, and no change in supportive care needs based on the SCNS-SF34. Mean changes in the EORTC-QLQ-C30 scores associated with the SCNS-SF34 improved and worsened categories were used to estimate clinically important changes, and the 'no change' category to estimate insignificant changes.

RESULTS

EORTC-QLQ-C30 score changes ranged from 6 to 32 points for patients reporting improved supportive care needs; statistically significant changes were 10-32 points. EORTC-QLQ-C30 score changes ranged from 21-point worsening to 21-point improvement for patients reporting worsening supportive care needs; statistically significant changes were 9-21 points in the hypothesized direction and a 21-point statistically significant change in the opposite direction. EORTC-QLQ-C30 score changes ranged from a 1-point worsening to 16-point improvement for patients reporting stable supportive care needs.

CONCLUSION

These data suggest 10-point EORTC-QLQ-C30 score changes represent changes in supportive care needs. When using the EORTC-QLQ-C30 in clinical practice, scores changing ≥10 points should be highlighted for clinical attention.

Optimizing quality of life in multiple myeloma patients: current options, challenges and recommendations

Multiple myeloma (MM) is a plasma cell neoplasm with a chronic disease course that primarily affects elderly individuals. The introduction of novel agents such as thalidomide, lenalidomide and bortezomib has significantly improved the outcome for MM patients, including the elderly. Quality of life in MM is influenced by disease-related symptoms, treatment-related toxicity and treatment response. In addition to conventional endpoints as response, quality of life should be carefully evaluated during each therapeutic phase. Caring for older adults with MM is particularly challenging because of the heterogeneity of aging and the presence of comorbidities and frailty, with a potential risk of over- or under-treatment. Moreover, elderly patients may sometimes prioritize maintaining quality of life above prolonging survival. A careful evaluation of comorbidities and a geriatric assessment can facilitate risk-stratification of elderly patients to identify the older population fit enough to tolerate standard drug dosing, and to detect the frail patients who need age-adapted treatment.

Investigating the minimal important difference in ambulation in multiple sclerosis: a disconnect between performance-based and patient-reported outcomes?

OBJECTIVE

We sought to estimate the MID on two patient-reported outcome (PRO) measures that are frequently used in multiple sclerosis (MS) clinical research: the MS Walking Scale and the MS Impact Scale-29. We anchored the Minimally Important Differences with an objective measure of ambulation, the accelerometer.

METHODS

This secondary analysis used longitudinal data from an observational study of symptoms and physical activity in 269 people with Relapsing-Remitting Multiple Sclerosis. Participants completed a battery of PRO questionnaires, and then wore an accelerometer for seven days at each data collection time point every six months for 2.5 years. Statistical analysis first defined Change Groups on the basis of the performance-based accelerometer scores, anchored to 0.5 standard deviation change; then change was defined on the basis of published and linked MIDs for the PROs.

RESULTS

The performance-based (accelerometer) and PRO-based change distributions were stable over time. Raw scores among the accelerometer and PRO measures were associated with large effect sizes, and PRO change scores were associated with each other but not with accelerometer change scores.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings contradict a central assumption that may underlie clinical research studies: that a cross-sectional correlation implies that change in PROs will correspond with change in behavior/performance. Possible explanations related to accuracy of the performance-based measure, as well as response shift effects on the PROs are discussed.

Don't middle your MIDs: regression to the mean shrinks estimates of minimally important differences

Minimal important differences (MIDs) for patient-reported outcomes (PROs) are often estimated by selecting a clinical variable to serve as an anchor. Then, differences in the clinical anchor regarded as clinically meaningful or important can be used to estimate the corresponding value of the PRO. Although these MID values are sometimes estimated by regression techniques, we show that this is a biased procedure and should not be used; alternative methods are proposed.