SOFA Calculator
Assess sequential organ dysfunction using SOFA score (Sequential Organ Failure Assessment).
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.
Calculate SOFA
What is SOFA?
SOFA (Sequential Organ Failure Assessment) evaluates 6 organ systems (respiration, coagulation, liver, cardiovascular, CNS, renal) with 0-4 points each. Total 0-24 points. Developed in 1996 for sepsis, used to monitor daily organ dysfunction evolution. Increase ≥2 points defines organ failure in sepsis (Sepsis-3, 2016).
When to use SOFA?
Use daily in critical patients to monitor organ dysfunction evolution. Essential in sepsis (increase ≥2 defines sepsis/septic shock). Useful to assess therapy response. Don't use for single admission (use APACHE for that). Ideal for serial monitoring.
Limitations and Considerations
SOFA doesn't predict admission mortality (use APACHE). Underestimates dysfunction if patient already on maximum support. Requires daily lab tests. Doesn't consider comorbidities. Maximum score (24) may be survivable with adequate support. Use delta-SOFA (variation) to assess response.
Frequently Asked Questions about SOFA
What's the difference between SOFA and qSOFA?
SOFA: complete 0-24 score, requires lab tests, used in ICU to monitor organ dysfunction. qSOFA (quick SOFA): rapid bedside screening (RR≥22, mental alteration, SBP≤100), no tests, identifies sepsis outside ICU. qSOFA ≥2 suggests high risk, needs complete SOFA.
How to use SOFA to define sepsis?
Sepsis-3 (2016): Sepsis = infection + SOFA ≥2. Septic shock = sepsis + vasopressor need for MAP≥65 + lactate >2 mmol/L despite resuscitation. Calculate baseline SOFA (before infection, assume 0 if unknown). Increase ≥2 points defines sepsis.
Does high SOFA mean don't invest?
No. High SOFA indicates severe dysfunction, but many survive with adequate support. Use delta-SOFA: if improves (point reduction) in 48-72h, good prognosis. If worsens or stable at maximum SOFA despite therapy, discuss limitation. Decision should be multifactorial.
How to monitor evolution with SOFA?
Calculate SOFA daily. Positive delta-SOFA (increase) = worsening. Negative delta-SOFA (decrease) = improvement. Increase ≥2 points in 24-48h indicates therapeutic failure. Sustained reduction indicates treatment response. Track each system separately to adjust support.