Intermediate
Technical
In the Industry Vocabulary Test
performance status
Standardized measure of a patient's functional ability and overall condition, important for treatment decisions.
Full Definition
Performance status is a standardized assessment of a patient's functional capacity and ability to perform daily activities. In pediatric oncology, several scales are used including the Lansky Performance Scale (for children under 16) and Karnofsky Performance Scale (for adolescents). Performance status influences treatment eligibility, dosing decisions, and clinical trial enrollment. Poor performance status may indicate the need for supportive care or treatment modification to prevent complications.
Usage
Usage note: Often abbreviated as PS; specify which scale is being used (Lansky vs. Karnofsky).
In Context
- "The patient's performance status of 90% made him eligible for intensive therapy." — clinical assessment
- "Declining performance status prompted a treatment holiday for recovery." — treatment plan
Also known as
functional status
PS
Don't confuse with
disease status
response status