Validación de una escala para evaluación de síntomas colaterales extrapiramidales de Simpson-Angus

Objectives: The study was aimed at validating the Simpson-Angus scale for neuroleptic-induced extrapyramidal syndrome in Colombia, using a Spanish version of the scale. Methods: The scale was validated in four steps: translating the scale, pilot study, preliminary use for factorial analysis and analysis of validity, reliability and sensitivity to change. Results: Factorial structure and internal consistency were evaluated in 86 psychiatric inpatients. Test-retest and inter-rater reliability were evaluated in a 15-patient subgroup. Concurrent validity was analysed by simultaneously applying Simpson-Angus and Chouinard scales. Sensitivity to change was evaluated by comparing the scores of two different clinical points in a 20-patient subgroup. Main factor analysis revealed that the scale has a one-dimensional structure; the Glabella tap did not contribute towards total variability of the condition measured for the scale. Test-retest and inter-rater reliability values, concurrent validity and sensitivity to change were good. Correlation estimation scores were above 0.8 and accuracy levels were also good. Conclusions: The Spanish version of the SA scale, adapted for this study, is suitable for assessing neuroleptic-induced extrapyramidal syndrome; it would be a useful instrument in both clinical practice and research settings in Colombia. However, an important limitation could be its lack of detecting any domain different to that of rigidity.