Abstract

Introduction: Charlson comorbidity index (CCI) is the most widely used morbidity index worldwide. It is a weighted index used to predict the risk of death within 1year and 6months of hospitalization for patients. This study was done to calculate the charlson comorbidity index in intensive care unit patients and to assess its efficacy in predicting inpatient mortality and to give a alarming cutoff value.

Methodology: A total of 156 medical Intensive care unit patients were studied. Charlson comorbidity index was calculated. Charlson comorbidity index of dead patients is compared with the recovered patients. Results were analyzed.

Results: Among the 156 ICU patients majority (60%) were of male sex and was more than 60 years (48%). Diabetes mellitus, Myocardial infarction, systemic hypertension and congestive heart failure were the most common co-morbidities associated with the study group. 38 (24%) of our study population died during the hospital stay and their mean Charlson comorbidity index was 5.34. It was found that Charlson comorbidity index was higher among the patients succumbed to death compared to patients got recovered from their illness. At CCI of 3.5 it had 97% sensitivity and 91.5% specificity.

Conclusion: Charlson comorbidity index can be used as a mortality predictor among Intensive care unitpatients . CCI of 3.5 is alarming and necessary measures should be taken at the earliest to reduce the mortality of the patient.

Keywords: charlson comorbidity index, ICU mortality.