GRACE score
Pronunciation: GRACE score
Global Registry of Acute Coronary Events risk score, used to predict mortality in patients with acute coronary syndromes. Incorporates age, vital signs, and cardiac biomarkers.
Full Definition
The Global Registry of Acute Coronary Events (GRACE) score is a validated risk stratification tool used to predict in-hospital and long-term mortality in patients presenting with acute coronary syndromes, including both STEMI and NSTEMI. The score incorporates multiple variables including age, heart rate, systolic blood pressure, creatinine levels, cardiac biomarkers, ST-segment deviation, and cardiac arrest at presentation. In cardiometabolic medicine, the GRACE score helps guide treatment intensity and timing of interventions, particularly in patients with diabetes who may have elevated baseline risk. High GRACE scores indicate need for early invasive management and intensive medical therapy.
Usage
Usage note: Scores >140 generally considered high risk requiring early intervention.
In Context
- "The patient's GRACE score of 154 indicated high risk, prompting early catheterization." — Cardiology assessment
- "GRACE score calculation guides timing of invasive intervention in NSTEMI patients." — Clinical protocol