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Updated: Aug 9, 2025
The Multiple Sclerosis Performance Test MSPT: An iPad-Based Disability Assessment Tool
Published on: June 30, 2014
New algorithmic approach for easier and faster extended disability status scale calculation
Amr M Fouad1, Maged Abdel Naseer1, Marwa Farghaly1
1Neurology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt.
Background:
The traditional paper and pencil method for EDSS calculation (pEDSS) is the cornerstone of multiple sclerosis practice; however, it requires an expert for an accurate calculation, and it takes a lot of time to perform the function scores. A new algorithmic approach (aEDSS) has been developed for easier and faster assessment.
Objective:
To determine if using aEDSS can achieve good inter-rater agreement and save time compared to pEDSS.
Subjects And Methods:
This study was conducted on 200 MS patients; EDSS was performed twice for each patient by two neurologists on the same day; one used the pEDSS, and the other used the aEDSS in a random order to test the inter-rater agreement regarding functional system scores and the final EDSS score and to detect the difference in the time needed for calculation between both methods.
Results:
The new algorithmic approach achieved excellent agreement with the traditional method (Kappa > 0.81) with a shorter calculation time (16 ± 2.67 min for aEDSS vs 31 ± 4.3 min for pEDSS, P < 0.0001).
Conclusion:
The new algorithmic approach could represent a suitable alternative to the traditional method, making EDSS calculation easier and faster.
