Validation of a UPDRS-/MDS-UPDRS-based definition of functional dependency for Parkinson's disease

Parkinsonism Relat Disord. 2020 Jul:76:49-53. doi: 10.1016/j.parkreldis.2020.05.034. Epub 2020 May 30.

Abstract

Introduction: Functional dependency in basic activities of daily living (ADLs) is a key outcome in Parkinson's disease (PD). We aimed to define dependency in PD, using the original and MDS versions of the Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale (UPDRS).

Methods: We developed two algorithms to define dependency from items of UPDRS Part 2 and MDS-UPDRS Part 2 relating to basic ADLs (feeding, dressing, hygiene and walking, and getting out of a chair). We validated both algorithms using data from 1110 patients from six community-based PD incidence cohorts, testing concurrent validity, convergent validity, and predictive validity.

Results: Our optimal algorithm showed high specificity and moderate to high sensitivity versus Schwab & England <80% (specificity 95% [95% confidence interval (CI) 93-97] and sensitivity 65% [95% CI 55-73] at baseline; 88% [95% CI 85-91] and 85% [95% CI 79-97] respectively at five-years follow-up). Convergent validity was demonstrated by strong associations between dependency defined by the algorithm and cognition (MMSE), quality of life (PDQ39), and impairment (UPDRS part 3) (all p < 0.001). Algorithm-defined dependency status also predicted mortality: HR for mortality in those dependent vs independent at baseline was 1.6 (95%CI 1.2-2.1) and in those dependent vs independent at five-years' follow-up was 2.2 (1.6-3.0).

Discussion: We have demonstrated the concurrent validity, convergent validity, and predictive validity of a UPDRS-/MDS-UPDRS-based algorithm to define functional dependency in PD. This can be used for studying dependency in any study where UPDRS or MDS-UPDRS part 2 data have been collected.

Keywords: Dependency; Measurement scales; Parkinson's disease; Validation.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Validation Study

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Algorithms
  • Cohort Studies
  • Female
  • Functional Status*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Mental Status and Dementia Tests / standards*
  • Middle Aged
  • Parkinson Disease / diagnosis*
  • Parkinson Disease / mortality
  • Parkinson Disease / physiopathology*
  • Reproducibility of Results
  • Sensitivity and Specificity