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Beyond the Eckardt Score: Patient-Reported Outcomes Measures in Esophageal Disorders

  • Esophagus (JO Clarke and NK Ahuja, Section Editors)
  • Published:
Current Gastroenterology Reports Aims and scope Submit manuscript

Abstract

Purpose of Review

To provide an overview of patient reported outcome measures (PROMs) and summarize their role in assessing undifferentiated dysphagia and common esophageal disorders, including achalasia, eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE), and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

Recent Findings

Given the subjective nature of swallowing disorders, accurate diagnoses often rely on capturing the patient experience. As a result, the number of PROMs used to characterize esophageal symptoms is increasing with a recent particular emphasis on EoE. Overall, esophageal-focused PROMs are used to interpret patient symptoms and quality of life, diagnosis, and symptom changes over time. There are limitations with each instrument, including factors affecting validity, reliability, accessibility, patient participation, and logistical implementation.

Summary

PROM instruments can be helpful tools in the diagnosis and treatment of esophageal disorders. Instruments should be chosen based on factors such as target population and setting, including research, clinical, and quality improvement efforts. Future research should address how best to implement PROMs and integrate the obtained data with patient care.

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Dorsey, Y.C., Song, E.J. & Leiman, D.A. Beyond the Eckardt Score: Patient-Reported Outcomes Measures in Esophageal Disorders. Curr Gastroenterol Rep 23, 29 (2021). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11894-021-00831-4

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