Charlson Comorbidity Index
Pronunciation: CHAR-son
Scoring system predicting mortality risk based on patient comorbidities.
Full Definition
The Charlson Comorbidity Index is a validated prognostic tool that assigns weighted scores to various comorbid conditions to predict one-year mortality risk. Originally developed in 1987, the index includes conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, liver disease, and various cancers, with more severe conditions receiving higher point values. In gastrointestinal oncology, the Charlson score helps assess surgical risk, guide treatment decisions, and stratify patients in research studies. A higher score indicates greater comorbidity burden and poorer prognosis, influencing decisions about aggressive interventions versus palliative approaches.
Usage
Usage note: Capitalize proper name; may be abbreviated as CCI.
In Context
- "The patient's Charlson Comorbidity Index score was 6, indicating high surgical risk." — Preoperative assessment
- "Patients with CCI scores above 5 showed significantly worse outcomes." — Clinical research paper