Information for Patients

The modified Friedreich Ataxia Rating Scale (mFARS) is a clinically validated set of assessments that measures Friedreich ataxia (FA) progression and its impact on a patient’s ability to perform activities of daily living.1

In addition to evaluating disease progression, changes to mFARS scores over time have been typically accepted as an endpoint in clinical trials for potential new FA treatments.1

mFARS at a glance
Download the Understanding mFARS Flashcard now

Patient mFARS Composite Scores Will Typically Increase ~2 Points Per Year2

The mFARS identifies milestones in clinical outcome measures of FA progression.

A multicenter natural history study evaluated 812 patients diagnosed with FA annually, using multiple tests, including FARS and mFARS. The mean length of GAA triplet repeat was 636 and mean age of onset was 13.7 years.2

*Noted ages are at baseline.

The 4 mFARS Components

The mFARS includes traditional elements of a neuromuscular assessment that specifically focus on a patient’s disabilities.

Download the Understanding mFARS Flashcard

Watch Sub Subramony, MD, Neurology, University of Florida Health, discuss the clinical relevance of mFARS scores for patient mobility and independence.

mFARS

An overview of the mFARS assessments to measure disease progression and help predict the pace of future progression, with the goal of supporting independence as long as possible.

Bulbar Function

An important measure of the strength and volume of coughing and clarity of speech.

Upper Limb Coordination

Key assessments for motor abilities related to tremors, fine motor coordination, and steadiness of hands and arms.

Lower Limb Coordination and Upright Stability

Two essential assessments of sitting, standing, and walking, focusing on coordination of legs and feet, status of ambulation, and ability to coordinate voluntary movements.

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References: 1. Rummey C, Corben LA, Delatycki MB, et al. Psychometric properties of the Friedreich Ataxia Rating Scale. Neurol Genet. 2019;5(6):371. 2. Patel M, Isaacs CJ, Seyer L, et al. Progression of Friedreich ataxia: quantitative characterization over 5 years. Ann Clin Transl Neurol. 2016;3(9):684-694.

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