The Lymphedema Functioning, Disability, and Health Questionnaire for Lower Limb Lymphedema: Translation, reliability, and validation study of the Turkish version

Background: This study aims to perform translation, reliability, and validation study of the Lymphedema Functioning, Disability, and Health Questionnaire for Lower Limb Lymphedema into the Turkish language. Methods: A total of 50 patients (14 males, 36 females; mean age 50.3 +/- 12.9 years; range 21 to 70 years) diagnosed with lower limb lymphedema were asked to fill out the Turkish version of the original questionnaire two times, seven days apart. Internal consistency was tested using the Cronbach's alpha and the test-retest reliability was assessed by calculating the intra-class correlation coefficient. Construct validity was examined by comparing the results of the lymphedema questionnaire and Short Form-36 questionnaire. Results: The test-retest reliability (range, 0.79 to 0.93) and the Cronbach alpha values (range, 0.79 to 0.94) of the lymphedema questionnaire total scores, physical function scores, mental function scores, general tasks/household scores, mobility scores, and life domains/social life scores were found to be excellent. Most of the Short Form-36 subscale (physical functioning, role-physical, bodily pain, general health, vitality, social functioning, role-emotional, mental health) and the lymphedema questionnaire subscales were significantly correlated (range, 0.006 to 0.01). Only the lymphedema total scores were not correlated with any subscale of the Short Form-36. Conclusion: The Turkish version of the Lymphedema Functioning, Disability, and Health Questionnaire for Lower Limb Lymphedema was found to be valid and reliable for patients with lower limb lymphedema.