Objective To identify International Classification of Functioning,Disability and Health (ICF) core categories most applicable to patients with dysphagia.Methods Swallowing dysfunction rating scales were searched through Embase,MEDLINE and CNKI covering the period between August 2005 and August 2015.All the scales found were classified and matched with different dimensions of the ICF so as to select the most applicable core sets.Results A total of 57 ICF items were included in the core set designed for dysphagia,including 27 body function items,13 body structure items,7 activity and participation items and 10 environmental factor items.Conclusions The ICF core categories selected for dysphagia through this systematic review provide a more comprehensive framework for future assessment and treatment of dysphagia.