Validação do teste de círculo dos dedos para identificação de baixa circunferência da panturrilha

Abstract

Introduction: The finger circle test (FRT) is a self-assessment method for detecting low calf circumference (CC). Objective: To validate the FRT and its modified version (FRTdin) for identifying low CC in older adults. Design: Cross-sectional study. Location: Primary Health Care Unit. Participants: A total of 255 older adults (mean age: 69.7 ± 7.1 years; 61.6% women) were included, excluding those with edema, limb amputation, or conditions preventing test performance. Methods: Sociodemographic data, anthropometric measurements, and right CC were collected. The results of the FRT (original and modified) were categorized as 1) smaller, 2) smaller, and just-fit for low CC classification. The agreement was evaluated using Cohen's kappa test, and test performance (sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values, and accuracy) was analyzed across the sample according to sex and body mass index (BMI). Results: Low CC was observed in 21.2% of participants. The FRTmod2 showed the highest agreement with low CC (κ = 0.57, κ = 0.45) and the highest accuracy (87.2%, 71.4%) across the total sample and in individuals with BMI < 25 kg/m². However, all test versions had greater specificity than sensitivity. Results varied in participants with BMI ≥ 25 kg/m², depending on whether BMI-adjusted CC was used. Conclusion: The FRT has low sensitivity but is valid for low CC screening in older adults. Its reliability is greater for positive results and is influenced by BMI > 25 kg/m².