Arabic adaptation and validation of the revised amyotrophic lateral sclerosis functional rating scale (ALSFRS-R): Egyptian study

Introduction ALSFRS-R is 12-item scale used to assess disability and to measure disease progression in ALS patients. The objective is to validate the Arabic version of ALSFRS-R based on the original English version.Methods and patients:This is a cross sectional study. ALSFRS-R was administered to 162 Egyptian patients with ALS after being translated in Arabic, and reapplied after 1 week. Patients were recruited from 2 centers: Neuromuscular unit, Ain Shams University hospitals and the specialized ALS clinic which is located at the international medical center (IMC).Results:No significant differences were found between the application and reapplication of the scale (p = 0.5). The linear regression and internal consistency that were measured by Pearson correlation and alpha Conbrach respectively were significant.Discussion:The Arabic version of the ALSFRS-R proposed by the current was proven to be reproducible and valid among Egyptian ALS patients. Thus, it will provide a useful tool for professionals to evaluate Arabic speaking patients in clinical practice and research.