EDSS
Also written as: EDSS — Expanded Disability Status Scale
Expanded Disability Status Scale used to quantify disability progression in multiple sclerosis patients.
Full Definition
The Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) is a standardized method for quantifying disability in multiple sclerosis, ranging from 0 (normal neurological exam) to 10 (death due to MS). Developed by John Kurtzke, the EDSS is the most widely used clinical rating scale in MS research and clinical practice. The scale emphasizes mobility and ambulation, with scores 0-3.5 based on neurological examination findings, scores 4.0-6.5 based on walking ability, and scores 7.0-9.5 based on wheelchair dependence. The EDSS is essential for monitoring disease progression, evaluating treatment efficacy in clinical trials, and making clinical decisions about therapy changes.
Usage
Usage note: Always capitalized and often followed by the numerical score.
In Context
- "The patient's EDSS score increased from 2.0 to 4.5 over the two-year follow-up period." — Clinical trial report
- "EDSS progression was the primary endpoint in the phase III multiple sclerosis study." — Research protocol