CURB-65
numeric mnemonic/kɜːb ˈsɪks.ti.faɪv/
Respiratory
Definition
1.A severity score for community-acquired pneumonia.
Expansion
- CConfusion — new disorientation (AMTS ≤ 8)
- UUrea — greater than 7 mmol/L
- RRespiratory rate — 30 breaths/min or more
- BBlood pressure — systolic < 90 or diastolic ≤ 60 mmHg
- 65Age — 65 years or older
Notes
Score one point per feature. Roughly: 0–1 suggests outpatient management, 2 consider a short admission, and ≥3 marks severe pneumonia needing inpatient — possibly ICU — care.
In primary care, where urea isn't to hand, the cut-down CRB-65 does the same job. The score guides disposition but never replaces the clinical gestalt.
Origin
A kerb-side score — five quick checks that sort pneumonia by severity.