The Kurtzke Expanded Disability Status Scale is a method of quantifying disability in multiple sclerosis. The scale has been developed by John F. Kurtzke. An is available. The EDSS is based on a neurological examination by a clinician, however a number of versions have been developed which enable patient self-administration. The EDSS quantifies disability in eight Functional Systems by assigning a Functional System Score in each of these functional systems.
EDSS steps 1.0 to 4.5 refer to people with MS who are fully ambulatory. EDSS steps 5.0 to 9.5 are defined by the impairment to ambulation. The clinical meaning of each possible result is the following:
1.5: No disability, minimal signs in more than 1 FS
2.0: Minimal disability in 1 FS
2.5: Mild disability in 1 or Minimal disability in 2 FS
3.0: Moderate disability in 1 FS or mild disability in 3 - 4 FS, though fully ambulatory
3.5: Fully ambulatory but with moderate disability in 1 FS and mild disability in 1 or 2 FS; or moderate disability in 2 FS; or mild disability in 5 FS
4.0: Fully ambulatory without aid, up and about 12hrs a day despite relatively severe disability. Able to walk without aid 500 meters
4.5: Fully ambulatory without aid, up and about much of day, able to work a full day, may otherwise have some limitations of full activity or require minimal assistance. Relatively severe disability. Able to walk without aid 300 meters
5.0: Ambulatory without aid for about 200 meters. Disability impairs full daily activities
5.5: Ambulatory for 100 meters, disability precludes full daily activities
6.0: Intermittent or unilateral constant assistance required to walk 100 meters with or without resting
6.5:Constant bilateral support required to walk 20 meters without resting
7.0: Unable to walk beyond 5 meters even with aid, essentially restricted to wheelchair, wheels self, transfers alone; active in wheelchair about 12 hours a day
7.5: Unable to take more than a few steps, restricted to wheelchair, may need aid to transfer; wheels self, but may require motorized chair for full day's activities
8.0: Essentially restricted to bed, chair, or wheelchair, but may be out of bed much of day; retains self care functions, generally effective use of arms
8.5: Essentially restricted to bed much of day, some effective use of arms, retains some self care functions
