What is an EDSS Score?
You may hear your neurologist refer to your EDSS score. EDSS stands for Expanded Disability Status Scale, and is an objective way of measuring symptoms. When repeated at intervals, EDSS assessment gives an indication of the progression of the disease. It is often used in clinical trials to evaluate the effects of treatments.
To work out an EDSS score the neurologist will grade the extent of impairment in each of eight areas of the central nervous system, along with certain measures of disability and restriction in daily life. These scores are added up to give a rating on the EDSS, which ranges from 0 (normal) to 10 (death due to MS). From step 4 onwards, ability to walk becomes the key factor in determining EDSS score.