Validation of the Italian Version of the Peyronie’s Disease Questionnaire (PDQ)

Abstract

Abstract Background/objectives: Peyronie's disease (PD) is a connective tissue disorder characterized by the formation of fibrous plaques in the tunica albuginea of the penis, resulting in pain, deformity, and erectile dysfunction. The Peyronie's Disease Questionnaire (PDQ) assesses the severity of symptoms, including pain, penile curvature, and erectile dysfunction, as well as the impact on sexual function, emotional well-being, and overall quality of life. Previous studies validated the PDQ US version and confirmed its test–retest reliability and responsiveness. The aim is to translate and validate the Italian version of the PDQ to be used in clinical practice and in PD research studies in Italy.Methods A non-interventional, observational study with 80 PD patients was conducted in 6 Italian high-volume centers, completing the PDQ in two different study visits. Patients received no type of treatment.Results PDQ-I has excellent test-retest reliability in the Italian population (ICC were between 0.86 and 0.92). Moreover, PDQ-I provides strong internal consistency, with all three scale scores exceeding the objective Cronbach's alpha coefficient of ≥ 0.70Conclusions The translation and validation of the PDQ for the Italian population provides a valid, useful, and reliable tool to clinically evaluate the quality of life of PD patients and to improve studies on the subject.