CHA2DS2-VASc Score
Pronunciation: CHADS-two-VAS-see
Also written as: CHA2DS2-VASc — Congestive heart failure, Hypertension, Age ≥75, Diabetes, Stroke, Vascular disease, Age 65-74, Sex category
A clinical prediction rule for estimating stroke risk in patients with atrial fibrillation, particularly relevant for anticoagulation decisions in elderly patients.
Full Definition
The CHA2DS2-VASc score is a validated risk stratification tool used to assess thromboembolic risk in patients with atrial fibrillation. The acronym stands for Congestive heart failure, Hypertension, Age ≥75 years (2 points), Diabetes, Stroke/TIA (2 points), Vascular disease, Age 65-74 years, and Sex category (female). In geriatric cardiology, this score is particularly important as advanced age significantly increases stroke risk, with patients aged 75 and older receiving 2 points. The score guides anticoagulation decisions, with most elderly patients having scores warranting anticoagulation therapy. However, bleeding risk must be balanced against thromboembolic risk using tools like the HAS-BLED score.
Usage
Usage note: Note the subscript '2' and ensure proper calculation including age-specific point allocation.
In Context
- "The patient's CHA2DS2-VASc score of 4 indicated high stroke risk warranting anticoagulation therapy." — Anticoagulation assessment
- "Given the CHA2DS2-VASc score calculation, the geriatrician recommended initiating direct oral anticoagulation." — Treatment recommendation