This large, multicenter psychometric validation study assessed the reliability and validity of an experience sampling method-based patient-reported outcome measure (ESM-PROM) for real-time gastrointestinal symptom monitoring in patients with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Across 230 participants in three European countries, the ESM-PROM showed strong concurrent validity with end-of-day diaries and moderate correlations with end-of-week questionnaires. It also demonstrated good internal consistency—particularly in core IBS symptom domains—and excellent test-retest reliability. Unlike retrospective reports, which tend to inflate symptom severity due to recall bias, ESM provided a more accurate and ecologically valid representation of patients’ daily symptom experiences, reducing peak reporting bias and capturing moment-to-moment variability.

The ESM-PROM enables nuanced analysis of symptom patterns, triggers, and comorbid psychological and physical states in real-world settings, making it a powerful tool for personalized care and treatment evaluation. Despite its time demands and technical considerations, compliance was high, and the method showed minimal evidence of reactivity or survey fatigue. This tool has the potential to enhance clinical decision-making, self-management, and research into IBS pathophysiology and treatment efficacy. However, future research is needed to confirm its responsiveness to treatment interventions and to define its optimal use in various clinical and research scenarios.

Reference: Bosman M, Vork L, Jonkers D, et al. Results From a Psychometric Validation Study: Patients With Irritable Bowel Syndrome Report Higher Symptom Burden Using End-of-Day Vs Real-Time Assessment. Am J Gastroenterol. 2025 May 1;120(5):1098-1107. doi: 10.14309/ajg.0000000000003091. Epub 2024 Sep 23. PMID: 39311432; PMCID: PMC12043265.