Validating an Ataxia Functional Composite Scale in spinocerebellar ataxia

The Ataxia Functional Composite Scale (AFCS) may provide a sensitive and reproducible assessment of treatment responses in studies of the spinocerebellar ataxias (SCA). We previously assessed the effects of buspirone in a cohort of patients with SCA via the International Cooperative Ataxia Rating Scale (ICARS). At each assessment period, AFCS scores were also obtained. A strong correlation of AFCS with ICARS scores was demonstrated at all assessment periods. This study supports the validity of the AFCS as a useful assessment of ataxia in this population.