Description

Rotterdam Symptom Checklist [RSCL-39]

Description

The Rotterdam Symptom Checklist [RSCL-39] is a self-report instrument developed to assess symptom burden and quality of life in patients with cancer. It evaluates both physical and psychological distress and provides information about the impact of symptoms on daily functioning.

Purpose

The RSCL-39 is designed to assess key areas including:

  • physical symptoms and physical distress,
  • psychological distress,
  • activity level and daily functioning,
  • overall perception of quality of life.

Scoring

Participants rate the extent to which they have experienced or been bothered by specific symptoms over a recent period. Responses are generally recorded on a four-point scale, ranging from “not at all” to “very much.”

Higher symptom scores indicate greater physical or psychological distress, while activity-related scores reflect limitations in everyday functioning.

Psychometric Properties

The RSCL has demonstrated good reliability and validity in oncology populations. Its psychological and physical symptom dimensions have shown satisfactory internal consistency and have been widely used in quality-of-life research.

Applications

The RSCL-39 is mainly used in oncology research and clinical practice to assess symptom severity, psychological well-being, functional status, and quality of life. It can also be used to monitor changes associated with disease progression or treatment.

Reference

de Haes, J. C. J. M., van Knippenberg, F. C. E., & Neijt, J. P. (1990). Measuring psychological and physical distress in cancer patients: Structure and application of the Rotterdam Symptom Checklist. British Journal of Cancer, 62(6), 1034–1038.