CURB-65 Score - Pneumonia Severity
Assess severity of community-acquired pneumonia using the CURB-65 score to guide treatment decisions.
Important Medical Disclaimer
This calculator is an educational and clinical decision support tool. Results DO NOT replace professional medical evaluation, laboratory tests, or clinical judgment. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for diagnosis, treatment, and clinical decisions. Calculations are based on scientifically validated formulas but may not be applicable to all patients.
About CURB-65 Score
The CURB-65 score is a clinical prediction rule used to assess the severity of community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) and guide treatment decisions regarding hospitalization. Developed by the British Thoracic Society in 2003, it evaluates 5 prognostic factors.
CURB-65 Criteria (1 point each)
- C - Confusion (new onset)
- U - Urea >7 mmol/L (BUN >19 mg/dL)
- R - Respiratory rate ≥30 breaths/min
- B - Blood pressure: SBP <90 or DBP ≤60 mmHg
- 65 - Age ≥65 years
Score Interpretation & Treatment
- 0-1 points: Low risk (<3% mortality) - Consider outpatient treatment
- 2 points: Moderate risk (9% mortality) - Consider short hospital stay or close outpatient monitoring
- 3-5 points: High risk (15-40% mortality) - Hospital admission required; consider ICU for scores 4-5
Note: CURB-65 is a clinical tool to aid decision-making and should be used alongside clinical judgment. Patients with comorbidities, hypoxemia, or other concerning features may require hospitalization regardless of score.