Ecog performance status

David A. Karnofsky first described a so-called performance status in 1948, which is known as the Karnofsky Index . In this score, each patient is assigned a point value between 0 (dead) and 100 (normal activity) on a linear scale. The measured values are used to roughly scale abilities, activities of daily life and possible dependencies. In 1960 the Eastern Co-operative Oncology Group (ECOG) introduced a further simplified ECOG Performance Status with only 6 points (ECOG/WHO Score).

0 Normal unrestricted activity as before the disease.

1 Limited physical exertion, but able to walk; light physical work or work in a sitting position (e.g. light housework or office work) possible.

2 Capable of walking, self-care possible but unable to work; can get up more than 50% of the waking hours.

3 Only limited self-care possible; bound to bed or chair for 50% or more of the waking time.

4 Completely in need of care, no self-care possible; completely tied to bed or chair.

5 Death

1. Karnofsky DA et al (1948) The use of the nitrogen mustards in the palliative treatment of carcinoma. With particular reference to bronchogenic carcinoma. Cancer 1:634-656.
2. Karnofsky DA et al. (1949) The Clinical Evaluation of Chemotherapeutic Agents in Cancer. In:MacLeod CM (Ed), Evaluation of Chemotherapeutic Agents. Columbia Univ Press S 196.
3. Oken MM et al (1982) Toxicity and response criteria of the Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group. At J Clin Oncol 5:649-655.