The ICF as a framework to collect and interpret data on the extent and variety of disability in neurological conditions

INTRODUCTION: Neurological conditions are associated with high levels of disability. OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to describe, using the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF), the most relevant aspects of disability in patients with neurological conditions. We collated data from previous studies on myasthenia gravis, migraine, Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, traumatic brain injury, stroke, epilepsy, vegetative state and minimally conscious state, and identified as relevant those ICF categories reported by at least 50% of patients in each condition. CONCLUSIONS: Records from 1310 patients were available. A total of 97 ICF categories were reported, and 21 were commonly addressed in more than five conditions. Approximately half of the categories in body functions were related to mental and movement-related functions and more than 25% of the activities-related categories involved activities that require the support from a caregiver. Environmental factors were mostly reported as facilitators. Our data indicate a residual mind-body dichotomy, the relevance of disability not only for the patients but also for their caregivers, and the difficulties in addressing barriers in the environment.