Validity and reliability of the Glittre-ADL test in individuals with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis

Background Patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) often present with dyspnea, fatigue, and desaturation. These symptoms can be highly limiting, as they lead to a decrease in performing activities of daily living (ADL). Therefore, it is essential to evaluate the degree of functional limitation of these individuals. Objective The present study aimed to evaluate the validity and reliability of the Glittre-ADL test (TGlittre) and its association with self-reported limitation in ADL and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in patients with IPF. Methods Twenty-seven individuals with IPF (60.5 +/- 10.6 years), with forced vital capacity 2.26 +/- 1.03 L (51.09 +/- 20.62% of predicted) were assessed for the time spent in TGlittre, 6-minute walking distance (6MWD), limitation in ADL and HRQoL. Results TGlittre was reliable (intraclass correlation coefficient(3,1) = 0.96; P < .001); however, a learning effect of 10.6% was observed between the first and second execution of TGlittre. The time spent in TGlittre correlated with 6MWD, limitation in ADL, and disease-specific HRQoL (P < .05). Conclusion TGlittre is valid and reliable for assessing functional capacity in patients with IPF. Still, it presents a learning effect and should be performed twice when assessing functional capacity in clinical practice.