Outcome after spontaneous subarachnoid hemorrhage measured with the EQ-5D.

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE The EQ-5D measures quality of life based on self-reported health status in 5 dimensions: mobility, self-care, usual activities, pain/discomfort, and anxiety/depression. In this study, the EQ-5D was evaluated as an outcome measure for patients with subarachnoid hemorrhage. METHODS The EQ-5D was completed in 710 patients 9 months after subarachnoid hemorrhage. Relevant demographic and clinical factors were evaluated as predictors of the 5 outcome dimensions in a series of linear regression models. RESULTS Worse health status in mobility, self-care, and usual activities was predicted by increasing age and by a more severe disease as indicated by the presence of an aneurysm, worse clinical condition at admission, or more blood on the CT scan. Younger age and female gender predicted worse health status regarding anxiety/depression. CONCLUSIONS The evaluation of the EQ-5D reveals age-related differences in the nature of the challenges faced by these patients.