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

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.