Hunt and Hess scale
Clinical grading system for subarachnoid hemorrhage severity based on neurological presentation.
Full Definition
The Hunt and Hess scale is a clinical classification system used to assess the severity of subarachnoid hemorrhage based on the patient's neurological condition at presentation. The scale ranges from Grade I (asymptomatic or minimal headache with slight nuchal rigidity) to Grade V (deep coma, decerebrate rigidity, moribund appearance). Grades II through IV represent progressively worsening neurological states with increasing drowsiness, confusion, and focal deficits. This grading system helps predict patient outcomes, guide treatment decisions, and stratify patients for research purposes. Unlike radiological grading systems, the Hunt and Hess scale focuses on clinical presentation rather than imaging findings.
Usage
Usage note: Capitalize proper names; use 'and' rather than '&' in formal writing.
In Context
- "The patient presented with Hunt and Hess Grade III subarachnoid hemorrhage with mild focal neurological deficits." — admission note
- "Hunt and Hess scale grading at admission strongly correlates with patient outcomes in aneurysmal SAH." — clinical research paper