Validation of the German version of Infants and Toddlers Dermatology Quality of Life (InToDermQoL) Questionnaire

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Skin diseases can greatly impair quality of life (QoL) of pediatric patients and their families. The Infants and Toddlers Dermatology Quality of Life questionnaire (InToDermQoL) is the first skin-generic instrument assessing QoL in children ≤ 4 years, as reported by their caregiver. This study aimed to psychometrically validate the German version of the InToDermQoL. PATIENTS AND METHODS: The psychometric properties of the InToDermQoL were examined in a sample of 148 children with various skin diseases (age groups [n]: < 1 [44]; 1-2 [68]; 3-4 [36]). RESULTS: Exploratory factor analysis suggested a unidimensional structure of the version for children < 1 year, and a two- and three-factor structure for the two older age groups, respectively. Internal consistency was excellent (Cronbach's alpha, 0.904-0.922). Two-week test-retest reliability was good, except in children aged 1-2 years (intraclass correlation coefficient [ICC], 0.430). The InToDermQoL demonstrated good convergent validity with other QoL questionnaires. CONCLUSIONS: The German InToDermQoL is a valid and reliable QoL measure in children ≤ 4 years with any skin disease. Application of the tool in research and clinical practice will contribute to a better understanding of the impact of pediatric dermatoses, and optimize care and support for affected families.