The glittre-ADL test can be used to assess the functional performance in patients with leprosy: A controlled transversal study

Aims: The purpose of this study was to assess functional capacity in leprosy patients by using the Glittre-ADL test, comparing it with the performance of healthy subjects, and correlating with the Screening of Activity Limitation and Safety Awareness (SALSA) scale and quality of life (QoL). Methods: A controlled transversal study was conducted with 27 participants, 16 patients with leprosy (Leprosy Group, LG) and 11 healthy participants (Control Group, CG). Eligible participants performed the Glittre ADL-test and answered the QoL Questionnaire (WHOQOL-BREF). Additionally, the participants in the LG answered the SALSA and the WHO’s Participation Scale. Results: Time to complete the Glittre-ADL test was higher in LG compared with CG (5.06 ± 0.96 min versus 3.76 ± 0.78 min, p < 0.05). The activity limitations according to the SALSA scale total scores revealed moderate limitations.

A significant correlation was observed between the Glittre-ADL test and the SALSA score (r = 0.74) but no with QoL. Patients with leprosy showed a worse quality of life compared with their healthy pairs. Conclusion: The Glittre test is a valid test to assess functional performance in patients with leprosy, differentiating them from their healthy pairs. This is a suitable option to questionnaires and scales when an objective assessment of the functional performance is required in patients with leprosy.