Artaraz et al reported the Bronchiectasis Exacerbation and Symptom Tool (BEST), a diary that can be used to monitor symptoms for a patient with bronchiectasis. Changes in the score can help to identify an exacerbation. The authors are from the University of Dundee, Galdakao-Usansolo Hospital (Spain), University of Milan and GrandaOspedale Maggiore Policlinico (Milan).
Patient selection: bronchiectasis
Parameters:
(1) breathlessness
(2) fatigue
(3) cough
(4) cold and flu symptoms
(5) sputum volume
(6) sputum color
Parameter
Finding
Points
breathlessness
none
0
when hurrying or walking up a slight hill
1
when walking slowly on level ground; need to stop for breath after a few minutes
2
need to stop after walking less than 100 meters or for a few minutes on level ground
3
when washing or dressing
4
fatigue
none
0
a little
1
can still do things that I would like to do
2
unable to do some things
3
unable to do usual daily activities
4
cough
none
0
mild
1
moderate
2
severe
3
very severe
4
cold and flu symptoms
none
0
sore throat, sore muscles, runny nose
1
fever or shivers
2
feels like an infection
5
sputum volume
none
0
less than a teaspoon
1
teaspoon to egg-cup
2
egg-cup to cup
3
more than a cup
4
sputum color
no sputum
0
white
1
yellow
2
green
3
dark green
4
blood-stained
5
total score =
= SUM(points for all of the parameters)
Interpretation:
• minimum score: 0
• maximum score: 26
• The minimum clinically important difference is 4 points.
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