Validation of the Turkish pediatric incontinence questionnaire (PinQ-TR): A reliable measure for assessing HRQoL in children with LUTD

Abstract

Background Lower urinary tract dysfunction (LUTD) is a prevalent condition in childhood that adversely affects multiple dimensions of health-related quality of life (HRQoL). The Pediatric Incontinence Questionnaire (PinQ) is a widely used, disease-specific instrument for capturing the psychosocial impact of urinary incontinence in children. To date, no validated Turkish version of this tool has been available. Objectives This study aimed to translate, culturally adapt, and psychometrically validate the Turkish version of the Pediatric Incontinence Questionnaire (PinQ-TR) for use in children with LUTD, ensuring its conceptual equivalence and measurement accuracy in the Turkish pediatric population. Methods A methodological study was conducted with 120 children aged 6-16 years diagnosed with LUTD. The translation process followed internationally accepted guidelines for cross-cultural adaptation. Psychometric evaluation included internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha), test-retest reliability (intraclass correlation coefficient, ICC), and construct validity. Convergent and discriminant validity were tested through correlations with the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory (PedsQL) and Dysfunctional Voiding and Incontinence Scoring System (DVISS), respectively. Results The PinQ-TR demonstrated strong internal consistency (alpha = 0.79) and excellent test-retest reliability (ICC = 0.967). Moderate-to-strong correlations with PedsQL and DVISS scores confirmed its construct validity. Floor and ceiling effects were minimal, indicating a broad sensitivity to patient-reported outcomes. Conclusions The PinQ-TR is a valid, reliable, and culturally appropriate instrument for assessing HRQoL in Turkish-speaking children with LUTD. Its integration into clinical and research contexts may enhance outcome tracking, patient-centered care, and crosscultural comparability in pediatric urology.