Validating the shortened Quality of Life in Childhood Epilepsy Questionnaire (QOLCE‐55) in a sample of children with drug‐resistant epilepsy
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SummaryObjectiveThe aim of this study was to validate the newly developed shortened Quality of Life in Childhood Epilepsy Questionnaire (QOLCE‐55) in a sample of children with drug‐resistant epilepsy.MethodsData came from 136 children enrolled in the Impact of Pediatric Epilepsy Surgery on Health‐Related Quality of Life Study (PEPSQOL), a multicenter prospective cohort study. Confirmatory factor analysis was used to assess the higher‐order factor structure of the QOLCE‐55. Convergent and divergent validity was assessed by correlating subscales of the KIDSCREEN‐27 with the QOLCE‐55. Measurement equivalence of the QOLCE‐55 was evaluated using multiple‐group confirmatory factor analysis of children with drug‐resistant epilepsy from PEPSQOL versus children with new‐onset epilepsy from HERQULES (Health‐Related Quality of Life in Children with Epilepsy Study).ResultsThe higher‐order factor structure of the QOLCE‐55 demonstrated adequate fit: Comparative Fit Index (CFI) = 0.948; Tucker‐Lewis Index (TLI) = 0.946; Root Mean Square of Approximation (RMSEA) = 0.060 (90% confidence interval [CI] 0.054–0.065); Weighted Root Mean Square Residuals (WRMR) = 1.247. Higher‐order factor loadings were strong, ranging from λ = 0.74 to 0.81. Internal consistency reliability was excellent (α = 0.97, subscales α > 0.82). QOLCE‐55 subscales demonstrated moderate to strong correlations with similar subscales of the KIDSCREEN‐27 (ρ = 0.43–0.75) and weak to moderate correlations with dissimilar subscales (ρ = 0.25–0.42). The QOLCE‐55 demonstrated partial measurement equivalence at the level of strict invariance – χ2 (2,823) = 3,727.9, CFI = 0.961, TLI = 0.962, RMSEA = 0.049 (0.044, 0.053), WRMR = 1.834.SignificanceThe findings provide support for the factor structure of the QOLCE‐55 and contribute to its robust psychometric profile as a reliable and valid measure. Researchers and health practitioners should consider the QOLCE‐55 as a viable option for reducing respondent burden when assessing health‐related quality of life in children with epilepsy.
