Parameters:
(1) duration of symptoms in days
(2) erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR)
(3) serum alpha-2 globulin concentration in g/L
|
Parameter
|
Finding
|
Points
|
|
duration of symptoms
|
<= 30 days
|
0
|
|
|
> 30 days
|
1
|
|
ESR
|
<= 40 mm per hr
|
0
|
|
|
> 40 mm per hour
|
1
|
|
serum alpha-2 globulin
|
<= 7.6 g/L
|
0
|
|
|
> 7.6 g/dL
|
3
|
where:
• 7.6 g/L is equivalent to 0.76 g/dL
• The odds ratios were around 2 for duration and ESR. It was approximately 7 for the serum alpha-2 globulin.
• Alpha-2 globulin is an acute phase reactant that is increased in acute or chronic inflammation.
• Complications refer to a focal organ involvement (osteomyelitis, endocarditis, etc). Some types of focal disease are more serious than others.
• Immunodeficiency or immunosuppression might be an additional risk factor.
total risk score =
= SUM(points for the 3 parameters)
Interpretation:
• minimum score: 0
• maximum score: 5
• The higher the score the greater the risk for complications.
