MG-ADL: still a relevant outcome measure

Muscle Nerve. 2011 Nov;44(5):727-31. doi: 10.1002/mus.22140.

Abstract

Introduction: The aim of this analysis was to examine the performance of the Myasthenia Gravis-specific Activities of Daily Living scale (MG-ADL) during a multicenter scale validation study.

Methods: Consecutive MG patients were assessed with several MG outcome measures, including the MG-ADL. Statistical tests included descriptive analysis, Pearson correlation, and sensitivity/specificity.

Results: Eighty-seven patients completed the MG-ADL, MG Composite (MGC), and MG 15-item Quality of Life scale (MG-QOL15) on the first visit, and 76 returned for the second visit. At the first visit, there was a strong positive correlation between MG-ADL and MGC (r = 0.85, P < 0.0001) and MG-QOL15 (r = 0.76, P < 0.0001). Correlation of the delta MG-ADL score and physician impression of change between the visits was strong (r = 0.70, P < 0.0001). A 2-point improvement in the MG-ADL best predicted clinical improvement. Test-retest analysis demonstrated a high reliability coefficient.

Conclusions: The MG-ADL correlates strongly with newer, validated MG outcome measures. A 2-point improvement in the MG-ADL indicates clinical improvement. The MG-ADL is useful as a research tool and in routine clinical management.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study
  • Multicenter Study
  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Validation Study

MeSH terms

  • Activities of Daily Living / psychology*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Myasthenia Gravis / diagnosis*
  • Myasthenia Gravis / psychology
  • Outcome Assessment, Health Care / methods*
  • Outcome Assessment, Health Care / standards*
  • Reproducibility of Results
  • Surveys and Questionnaires / standards*