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Abstract
In recent years several studies have highlighted the clinical significance of fatigue
in Parkinson's disease. While we are becoming aware of its prevalence and impact on
the lives of patient, little progress has been made in understanding its nature or
aetiology, nor on finding ways to manage the problem clinically. One possible reason
for the slow pace of progress is the lack of an appropriate instrument to measure
fatigue in Parkinson's disease and related disorders. While assessment tools have
been developed for assessing fatigue associated with other diseases, their use in
patients with Parkinsonism can pose problems and their validity cannot be assumed.
In an attempt to progress research and improve clinical management a new instrument
is presented, the Parkinson Fatigue Scale.
This 16-item self-report instrument (the PFS-16) arose from statements by individuals
with Parkinsonism experiencing fatigue. Initially tested on a sample of almost 500
patients, and subsequently on an independent sample of over 100.
The PFS-16 scale was designed to tap a single construct encompassing the physical
aspects fatigue and their impact on the patient's daily function. The scale deliberately
excludes emotional and cognitive features that may occur as part of the fatigue experience
but which may also occur independently in Parkinsonism. The scale has good intrinsic
properties and satisfactory test-retest reliability. It shows reasonable associations
with other measures of fatigue and is able to identify patients who self-report the
presence of fatigue, and particularly those in whom fatigue is a problem. Cut-off
scores are provided in both cases with good specificity and sensitivity.
While further evaluation is required, the scale is offered to facilitate clinical
practice and future research. It is hoped that its use will enable the improved understanding
and clinical management of this important problem.