Validity of the Rotterdam Symptom Checklist in paediatric oncology

Abstract

In order to determine the validity of the Rotterdam Symptom Checklist (RSC) for use with paediatric patients, a sample of 47 mothers with a child with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL) was asked to complete the RSC, the Play Performance Scale for Children (PPSC) and a measure of daily activity (FDI). Questionnaires were completed during routine outpatient visits. There were no effects of child age on number of symptoms reported. The physical symptom subscale of the RSC distinguished between children in terms of treatment status and number of hospitalisations. However, the psychological symptom subscale did not distinguish between these groups. Limitations of the scale for work with children are considered. These include difficulties experienced by parents in reporting psychological symptoms for their children, and the inappropriateness of a scale developed for adults to assess children. In the absence of other measures, the RSC can be used for children, but a more developmentally appropriate measure is needed.