Calculadora de CURB-65 (pneumonia)
- Created by
- Renato Passos, Eng. de Software
- Reviewed by
- Renato Passos, Eng. de Software
Last updated: Apr 18, 2026
Formula
CURB-65: cada item vale 1 ponto
About this calculator
The CURB-65 Calculator is a clinical tool that assesses the severity of community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) in adult patients. The score ranges from 0 to 5 points, where each of five criteria is worth 1 point: confusion (new or worsened), urea > 20 mg/dL (BUN > 7 mmol/L), respiratory rate ≥ 30/min, blood pressure systolic < 90 mmHg or diastolic ≤ 60 mmHg, and age ≥ 65 years. The result aids in decisions regarding outpatient treatment, hospital ward admission, or ICU care.
How it works: the healthcare professional fills in fields corresponding to each criterion. If the patient presents the finding, 1 point is marked. The total sum is automatically calculated. For example, a patient with confusion, elevated urea, and age ≥ 65 has a score of 3. Higher scores indicate higher mortality and need for intensive care. Scores 0-1 indicate low risk and possible outpatient treatment; score 2 suggests ward admission; scores 3-5 indicate severe pneumonia and likely ICU admission.
When to use: indicated for adult patients diagnosed with community-acquired pneumonia in emergency departments, outpatient clinics, or primary care. The tool helps standardize management, reduce unnecessary hospitalizations, and quickly identify severe cases needing ICU. It should not be used in patients with hospital-acquired pneumonia, immunocompromised status, or severe comorbidities not captured by the score.
Cautions: CURB-65 does not replace clinical judgment. Factors like hypoxemia, comorbidities (COPD, heart failure), or hemodynamic instability may warrant admission even with a low score. The score has been validated in specific populations; performance may be lower in very elderly patients or those with aspiration pneumonia. Always consider the full clinical context and perform serial reassessments.
Frequently asked questions
What does a CURB-65 score of 2 mean?
A score of 2 indicates moderate severity pneumonia. Ward admission is recommended for observation and treatment, as mortality increases compared to scores 0-1.
Can I use CURB-65 in children?
No. CURB-65 was validated only for adults with community-acquired pneumonia. For children, specific scores like the PIRO or pneumonia risk score should be used.
What if the patient has confusion but normal urea?
Confusion counts as 1 point regardless of other criteria. Add points for all present criteria. Normal urea does not cancel the confusion point.
What is the difference between CURB-65 and CRB-65?
CRB-65 does not include the urea test, making it useful when lab results are not quickly available. CURB-65 is more comprehensive, as elevated urea is a predictor of worse prognosis.
Does a score of 0 mean I can safely send the patient home?
A score of 0 suggests low risk, but the final decision should consider other factors like hypoxemia, comorbidities, social support, and ability to return. Patients with score 0 may still need admission if unstable.