ABSTRACT
Basically, there are two different types of questionnaire.2 Generic questionnaires, which are unspecific to any particular disease, can be broadly applied to different diseases in a feasible manner. Another advan tage is that these questionnaires are often standardized if reference values for a normal population are available. However, the non-specific nature of such a generic instrument can lead to failing – or at least insufficient – responsiveness and sensitivity, particularly in the evaluation of specific treatment strategies. In contrast, disease – or condition – specific questionnaires are postulated to be most sensitive to HRQoL changes, for example following treatment interventions. However, as a consequence, only limited application according to the specific disease or condition is reasonable.
