Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI)
A weighted comorbidity score predicting 1-year mortality based on 19 medical conditions. Age-adjusted version adds points per decade over 50.
Warnings:
- CCI was originally developed for internal medicine inpatients; predictive value varies by population
- Multiple versions exist (Charlson/Deyo, Charlson/Quan, etc.) with different ICD code mappings
- Popular Charlson/Deyo variant uses 17 categories instead of 19
- Quan et al. (2003) updated weights based on newer data
- CCI correlates with mortality and progression-free survival in oncology
- Scores >8-10 have limited evaluation in comorbidity literature
- Does not include non-malignant hematologic conditions like anemia
Note: Original CCI (1987): 19 conditions, weights 1-6, max unadjusted = 37. With age adjustment: max = 43. Charlson/Deyo variant: 17 categories. Each 1-point increase approximately doubles 1-year mortality risk.
Add points per decade over age 50 for age-adjusted CCI
History of MI
CHF
PVD
CVA/TIA
Dementia
COPD, chronic bronchitis, emphysema
Rheumatologic disease
PUD
Chronic hepatitis, cirrhosis without portal hypertension
Diabetes without complications
Hemiplegia or paraplegia
CKD stage 3b+ or on dialysis
Diabetes with retinopathy, nephropathy, neuropathy, or PAD
Solid tumor, leukemia, or lymphoma
Cirrhosis with portal hypertension, varices, hepatic encephalopathy, or hepatorenal syndrome
Metastatic solid tumor
AIDS (not just HIV)
References
- Charlson Comorbidity Index - Wikipedia / Primary Reference - Wikipedia / Charlson et al. 1987 (2023)
- Adaptation of the Charlson Comorbidity Index for Register-Based Research in Sweden - Clinical Epidemiology / PMC (2021)
- An electronic application for rapidly calculating Charlson comorbidity score - BMC Cancer / PMC (2004)
Medical Disclaimer
This calculator is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.