A new clinical taxonomy for rating change in functional activities of patients with angina pectoris

摘要: The treatment of patients with angina pectoris is commonly evaluated according to such indexes as the frequency anginal attacks, quantity supplemental nitroglycerin, and exercise performance in an ergometric laboratory test. None these demonstrates clinical change ordinary functional limitations that may have been major reason why a patient sought medical help. New York Heart Association ratings capacity do not refer different types activity four categories scale are too coarse show distinct changes can occur while retains same rating. A new taxonomy has devised for rating transitions noted three kinds performance: occupation, customary activities, sporadic activities. activities be combined into single global When applied conventional questionaire data 309 randomized double-blind therapeutic trial, classifications showed statistically significant superiority, each type transition ratings, receiving timolol maleate rather than placebo. By augmenting information used evaluation, taxonomic expand scientific scope antianginal treatment. Data derived from history-taking just "harder" forms information, simultaneously being more pertinent challenge choosing evaluating agents care.