CURB-65 Pneumonia Severity Calculator
CURB-65 estimates 30-day mortality risk in community-acquired pneumonia from five factors (Confusion, Urea, Respiratory rate, Blood pressure, age β₯65) to help decide on hospital admission.
Quick answer
CURB-65 scores five factors in community-acquired pneumonia β Confusion, Urea over 7 mmol/L, Respiratory rate 30 or more, low Blood pressure, and age 65 or over β from 0 to 5 to estimate 30-day mortality and guide admission. 0β1 is low, 2 is moderate, 3β5 is severe.
CURB-65 criteria
Low severity β outpatient often appropriate
A CURB-65 of 0: low severity β outpatient often appropriate. The score estimates 30-day mortality in community-acquired pneumonia and supports the admission decision alongside clinical judgement, oxygen saturation and social factors. The original study reported mortality rising from under 1% at 0 points to over 20% at 4β5 points (Lim 2003, Thorax).
How to use the CURB-65 calculator
- 1Tick the five criteria. Tick confusion, urea over 7 mmol/L (BUN over 19 mg/dL), respiratory rate 30 or more, low blood pressure (systolic under 90 or diastolic 60 or less), and age 65 or over.
- 2Read the score. The tool totals the points (0β5).
- 3Use it to support the admission decision. 0β1 often suits outpatient care, 2 suggests considering admission, and 3β5 suggests admission with assessment for intensive care β alongside oxygen levels and clinical judgement.
Medical disclaimer: This is general health information, not medical advice. It does not diagnose or treat any condition, and the results are estimates based on public reference formulas. Always consult a qualified doctor about your individual health. If you think you may have a medical emergency, contact your local emergency services immediately.
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Book a consultationFrequently asked questions
What CURB-65 score needs hospital admission?β
Broadly, 0β1 can often be managed at home, 2 warrants considering admission, and 3 or more usually warrants admission with assessment for intensive care. Saturation, comorbidity and social factors also matter, and a clinician decides.
What is the difference between CURB-65 and CRB-65?β
CRB-65 drops the urea (blood test) criterion so it can be used without bloods, for example in primary care. CURB-65 includes urea and is used where bloods are available.
Does CURB-65 diagnose pneumonia?β
No. It assumes pneumonia is already diagnosed and estimates its severity to guide where care should happen.
Sources & validation
This calculator reproduces the published CURB-65 score, validated for 30-day mortality risk and admission triage in community-acquired pneumonia.
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