Using a new tool to evaluate the functional capacity of patients with HTLV-1 associated myelopathy/Tropical spastic paraparesis (HAM/TSP)

Abstract

| 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: Crosssectional 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.

Impaired flexibility in patients with tropical spastic paraparesis/HTLV-associated myelopathy: evaluation via pendulum fleximeter

“…16 Consequently, TSP/HAM may lead to reduced joint flexibility and can interfere in the harmonic execution of lower limb and trunk movements, contributing to a reduction in functional capacity and risk of fall. [17][18][19] A previous study provided preliminary evidence indicating that patients with TSP/HAM present reduced joint flexibility and, consequently, mobility, resulting in decreased functional capacity compared with uninfected individuals. 20 Joint flexibility is the range of motion (ROM) in a joint or group of joints, or the ability of joints to move effectively through a complete range of motion.…”

“…16 Consequently, TSP/HAM may lead to reduced joint flexibility and can interfere in the harmonic execution of lower limb and trunk movements, contributing to a reduction in functional capacity and risk of fall. 17 18 19…”