Psychometric validation and cross-cultural adaptation of the Persian ICIQ-CLUTS child module for assessing pediatric lower urinary tract symptoms

BACKGROUND: Lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) are common in children and significantly affect their physical, emotional, and social well-being. Although older tools exist for assessing LUTS in children, a widely recognized and reliable Persian version has not been developed. This study aimed to translate, adapt, and validate the Persian version of ICIQ-CLUTS for children. METHODS: This cross-sectional study followed ICIQ and COSMIN guidelines for translation and adaptation. Fifty-one children aged 9–14 years were included: the case group consisted of children with urinary symptoms, while the control group comprised children with unrelated conditions. Children completed the questionnaire twice, with a 7–10 day interval. Psychometric testing included internal consistency (Cronbach’s α), test-retest reliability (ICC), item analysis, discriminant validity, and ceiling/floor effects. RESULTS: Gender distribution was 27 females (52.9%) and 24 males (47.1%), with no significant association between gender and group. Persian ICIQ-CLUTS was highly consistent internally (Cronbach’s α = 0.927). Test-retest reliability was high (ρ = 0.913–1.000), and discriminant validity was determined (p < .001). There was no floor and ceiling effect. It was highly feasible and highly acceptable and generated minimal missing data. CONCLUSION: Persian ICIQ-CLUTS is a valid and reliable questionnaire to screen pediatric LUTS in Persian children. It has good psychometric properties, suitable for clinical application and research. Its treatment responsiveness and long-term effectiveness need to be investigated further.