MASCC Risk Index: Febrile Neutropenia Evaluation

The MASCC Risk Index: Risk Assessment in Febrile Neutropenia

Developed by the Multinational Association for Supportive Care in Cancer (MASCC) in 2000, the MASCC Risk Index is a globally recognized and highly validated clinical tool. It was designed to accurately identify cancer patients presenting with febrile neutropenia (typically induced by chemotherapy) who are at a low risk of developing severe medical complications (such as septic shock, respiratory failure, major bleeding, or death). Early identification of these low-risk patients helps reduce unnecessary hospital admissions and improves quality of life.

How does the MASCC score calculation work?

Unlike many medical severity scores that add points for detrimental factors, the MASCC index works in reverse: it assigns points for the absence of comorbidities and the presence of protective factors. Therefore, a high score is reassuring. The maximum possible score is 26 points, representing the patient with the lowest possible risk.

• Burden of illness: Subjectively evaluates the patient's overall clinical state. Patients with no or mild symptoms receive the maximum points (5 points).
• Objective clinical factors: The absence of systolic hypotension (< 90 mmHg), the absence of COPD, the absence of dehydration requiring IV rehydration, as well as an outpatient status at the onset of fever and an age under 60 years, all increase the overall score.

Global Risk Interpretation (MASCC)