Comorbidity risk
Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI)
The CCI predicts ten-year mortality for patients with multiple comorbidities and is widely used in clinical research, risk adjustment, and bedside decision-making. Points are assigned based on chronic conditions and age.
Add 1 point per decade above 40 (max 5).
Comorbidities
Toggle applicable diagnoses. Age points are added automatically.
Comorbidity points
3
Age adjustment: +3
Total CCI score
6
Monitor closely, coordinate multidisciplinary care, and anticipate higher hospitalization risk.
Estimated 10-year survival: 43.4%
How to Use This Calculator
Review chronic diagnoses
Confirm with the patient chart that each comorbidity meets Charlson definitions (e.g., diabetes with end-organ damage).
Select applicable conditions
Toggle boxes for present comorbidities. Age points are automatically added for patients ≥50 years.
Apply the result in context
Use CCI to inform prognosis, perioperative risk, and care planning while considering functional status and patient goals.
Formula
Total CCI score = Σ(comorbidity weights) + Age adjustment
- Assign weights per Charlson definitions (1, 2, 3, or 6 points).
- Add age points: 1 (50–59), 2 (60–69), 3 (70–79), 4 (80–89), 5 (≥90).
Estimated 10-year survival ≈ exp(−exp(−0.9 + 0.12 × total score)). Higher scores indicate greater mortality risk.
Full Description
The Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI) was derived from longitudinal cohort data to predict ten-year mortality. It is widely used in clinical research, hospitalization risk adjustment, and bedside decision-making. Each comorbidity contributes a weighted score reflecting its impact on long-term survival.
CCI complements—but does not replace—clinical judgement. Functional status, frailty, social support, and acute illness severity also influence outcomes. Reassess periodically as diagnoses evolve, and document how comorbidity burden affects shared decision-making.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I avoid double-counting diabetes?
Select either “diabetes without complications” or “diabetes with end-organ damage,” not both.
Should age points always be added?
Yes for patients aged ≥50. Original Charlson methodology adds age points on top of condition weights.
Does the CCI apply to surgical patients?
Yes. Higher scores correlate with postoperative complications and mortality. Combine with procedure-specific risk tools.
Are hematologic malignancies included?
Yes—lymphoma and leukemia are scored as 2 points (considered under “cancer”). Adjust the tool if you need separate categorization.