Neuromuscular assessment form (NAF): pediatric outpatient follow-up experience from a single Brazilian center

Formulário de avaliação neuromuscular: experiência de seguimento ambulatorial de um centro Brasileiro

Abstract

Background: Neuromuscular disorders are a heterogeneous group of genetic or acquired diseases affecting the anterior horn, peripheral nerves, neuromuscular junctions, or muscles. Given their multisystemic complexity, comprehensive care and standardized evaluation tools are essential.

Objective: To describe the development, implementation, and utility of the Neuromuscular Assessment Form (NAF) as a tool for integrated clinical evaluation in patients with NMDs at a Brazilian reference center. Methods: A descriptive observational study was conducted using retrospective data from patients followed over the past thirty years at a reference center. The NAF was designed based on literature review, national therapeutic guidelines, and consultations with multidisciplinary specialists in pediatric neurology, physiotherapy, speech therapy, and other support areas.

Results: The NAF enabled the systematic documentation of motor and multisystemic data, including cardiac, respiratory, nutritional, orthopedic, and neuropsychiatric functions. It facilitated interdisciplinary interventions and ensured continuity of care.

Background: Neuromuscular disorders are a heterogeneous group of genetic or acquired diseases affecting the anterior horn, peripheral nerves, neuromuscular junctions, or muscles. Given their multisystemic complexity, comprehensive care and standardized evaluation tools are essential.

Objective: To describe the development, implementation, and utility of the Neuromuscular Assessment Form (NAF) as a tool for integrated clinical evaluation in patients with NMDs at a Brazilian reference center. Methods: A descriptive observational study was conducted using retrospective data from patients followed over the past thirty years at a reference center. The NAF was designed based on literature review, national therapeutic guidelines, and consultations with multidisciplinary specialists in pediatric neurology, physiotherapy, speech therapy, and other support areas.

Results: The NAF enabled the systematic documentation of motor and multisystemic data, including cardiac, respiratory, nutritional, orthopedic, and neuropsychiatric functions. It facilitated interdisciplinary interventions and ensured continuity of care.

Conclusion: The NAF is a practical and effective tool for standardized clinical evaluation and longitudinal follow-up of patients with NMDs. It has the potential to promote equitable care and enhance research across different regions, especially in resource-limited settings. Future validation and integration into electronic health systems may further improve its applicability and impact.