Candida Score
Estimates the risk of invasive candidiasis in critically ill patients colonized by Candida.
When to use
Nonneutropenic critically ill patients with Candida colonization, to support the decision for investigation or early treatment.
Pearls and pitfalls
- Parenteral nutrition, surgery and multifocal colonization score 1 point each; severe sepsis scores 2.
- The cutoff of 3 was associated with a higher probability of invasive candidiasis in the original study.
- Colonization is not infection; the score supports the decision and does not confirm the diagnosis.
- Local epidemiology and prior antifungal use modify score performance.
0/5 points
Low risk (less than 3)
Keep clinical surveillance and reassess if new risk factors appear.
Formula
Add 1 point for parenteral nutrition, surgery and multifocal colonization; 2 points for severe sepsis.
Evidence
Score derived in a multicenter study of colonized critically ill patients, with a cutoff of 3 for invasive candidiasis.
References
- Leon C, Ruiz-Santana S, Saavedra P, et al. A bedside scoring system (Candida score) for early antifungal treatment in nonneutropenic critically ill patients with Candida colonization. Crit Care Med. 2006;34(3):730-737. doi:10.1097/01.ccm.0000202208.37364.7d
Frequently asked questions
What is Candida Score?
Estimates the risk of invasive candidiasis in critically ill patients colonized by Candida. Nonneutropenic critically ill patients with Candida colonization, to support the decision for investigation or early treatment.
How is the result calculated?
Add 1 point for parenteral nutrition, surgery and multifocal colonization; 2 points for severe sepsis.
How should the result be interpreted?
Score derived in a multicenter study of colonized critically ill patients, with a cutoff of 3 for invasive candidiasis.
What are the sources?
Leon C, Ruiz-Santana S, Saavedra P, et al. A bedside scoring system (Candida score) for early antifungal treatment in nonneutropenic critically ill patients with Candida colonization. Crit Care Med. 2006;34(3):730-737.