Rating neurologic impairment in multiple sclerosis

1983/11/01 by John F. Kurtzke · 21 citations
Medicine · #Multiple Sclerosis Research Studies

paper · doi:10.1212/wnl.33.11.1444

openalex publication_date 1983/11/01 · openalex created_date 2016/06/24 · openalex updated_date 2026/08/04

Abstract

One method of evaluating the degree of neurologic impairment in MS has been the combination of grades (0 = normal to 5 or 6 = maximal impairment) within 8 Functional Systems (FS) and an overall Disability Status Scale (DSS) that had steps from 0 (normal) to 10 (death due to MS). A new Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) is presented, with each of the former steps (1,2,3 . . . 9) now divided into two (1.0, 1.5, 2.0 . . . 9.5). The lower portion is obligatorily defined by Functional System grades. The FS are Pyramidal, Cerebellar, Brain Stem, Sensory, Bowel & Bladder, Visual, Cerebral, and Other; the Sensory and Bowel & Bladder Systems have been revised. Patterns of FS and relations of FS by type and grade to the DSS are demonstrated.

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