Turkish version of modified Hand Mobility in Scleroderma test: A translation and validation study

Abstract

Objective Hand Mobility in Scleroderma (HAMIS) is a hand function test used to determine the degree of dysfunction of hand movements. The Modified Hand Mobility in Scleroderma (mHAMIS), on the other hand, was developed later and consists of 4 items. The aim of this study was to determine the reliability and validity of mHAMIS. Methods This study included a total of 39 patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc) who were assessed with mHAMIS. The Cronbach's alpha coefficient, Kappa concordance, and intraclass correlation were respectively used to assess the internal consistency, intra- and inter-observer agreement, and inter-observer reliability of the test. The correlation between the Health Assessment Questionnaire (HAQ), the Duruoz Hand Index (DHI), and the Turkish version of mHAMIS were evaluated. Results The internal consistency of the test items was between .912 and .939. The total internal consistency of the test was excellent, with a Cronbach's alpha value of .954. The intra- and inter-observer agreement were good, with Kappa values of 0.954 (95% CI 0.89-1.6) and 0.965 (95% CI 0.82-1.4), respectively. The inter-observer reliability was 0.966 (95% CI 0.936-0.982; P<.0001). There was a strong correlation between DHI, HAQ, and mHAMIS (r: .7-.8). Conclusion The Turkish version of the mHAMIS test showed good intra- and inter-observer agreement, intra-observer reliability, and internal consistency. This test is a reliable and valid tool to assess hand functions in Turkish SSc patients.