Using a new tool to evaluate the functional capacity of patients with HTLV-1 associated myelopathy/Tropical spastic paraparesis (HAM/TSP)
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.17267/2317-3386bjmhh.v5i4.1694Palavras-chave:
HTLV-1, HAM/TSP, functional capacity, activities of daily livingResumo
HAM/TSP patients experience impaired functional capacity. The use of categorical scales to accurately describe motor ability in these patients has been questioned.
Aim: To evaluate the functional capacity of HAM/TSP patients by using the individual tests comprising the GDLAM protocol.
Methods: Cross sectional study carried out in the CHTLV, Salvador, Brazil. Functional capacity was evaluated using the tests of the GDLAM protocol (timed 10-minute walk, getting up from a sitting position, rising from a prone position, getting up from a chair, and moving around the house). Functional classifications were made by comparing patient performance to that of uninfected control individuals.
Results: Twenty-four HAM/TSP and 25 healthy individuals were enrolled. Only 75% HAM/TSP patients completed the GDLAM protocol. Six patients failed to perform the RPP test. Timed measurements were significantly higher in the HAM/TSP patients in comparison to uninfected controls.
Conclusion: The use of alternative methods, such as the individual tests comprising the GDLAM protocol, may more accurately assess motor function in HAM/TSP patients.
