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Printed on 4/21/2026
For informational purposes only. This is not medical advice.
Karnofsky Performance Status (KPS) is a clinician-rated functional scale from 100 (normal activity) to 0 (dead). It is used in oncology and palliative care to quantify disability, support prognostic discussions, and guide treatment intensity considerations.
Formula: Clinician-assigned ordinal score from 100 to 0 based on functional independence and care needs.
Lower KPS values indicate higher functional impairment and generally worse prognosis across many oncology populations.
Use during baseline and follow-up oncology assessments, trial discussions, and palliative care planning.
KPS is subjective and can vary between observers. It also does not by itself identify the reversible causes of functional decline.
For related assessments, see ECOG Status, Clinical Frailty Scale and ASA Class.
Disclaimer: This tool is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider with questions about your health.
Classify cancer patient performance status using the ECOG 0–5 scale. ECOG 0–1: eligible for standard chemotherapy. ECOG 2: limited self-care. ECOG 3+: significantly impaired, clinical trial caution.
GeriatricsAssess frailty using the Rockwood Clinical Frailty Scale (CFS 1–9): Very Fit to Terminally Ill. Used for ICU triage, surgical risk stratification, and goals-of-care discussions in elderly patients.
SurgeryClassify preoperative physical status using the ASA I–VI system for anesthetic risk stratification. ASA III+ indicates significant systemic disease requiring special perioperative planning and precautions.