Centor Score Calculator
Assess the probability of streptococcal pharyngitis using Modified Centor/McIsaac criteria
Centor Criteria Assessment
Body Temperature
Tonsils
Lymph Nodes
Cough
Note: Absence of cough adds points as it's more consistent with bacterial infection
Age
Centor Score Results
No Further Testing Needed
No further testing or antibiotics are required. Symptomatic treatment is sufficient.
Recommended Action: Supportive care only
Score Breakdown
Clinical Example
Case Study
A 24-year-old male student presents with sore throat that started yesterday. He reports productive cough, sneezing, and runny nose. Temperature is 37.8°C. He denies neck pain. Physical exam shows enlarged, swollen tonsils with exudate but no lymphadenopathy.
- • Temperature 37.8°C: 0 points (below 38°C)
- • Tonsillar exudates: +1 point
- • No lymphadenopathy: 0 points
- • Productive cough: 0 points
- • Age 24 years: 0 points
Total Score: 1 point
Strep probability: 5-7%
Recommendation: No antibiotic or throat culture necessary
Score Interpretation
No further testing needed
Culture test recommended
Empirical antibiotic treatment
Original Centor Criteria
⚠️ Important Disclaimer
This calculator is for educational purposes and clinical guidance only. It cannot replace professional medical evaluation.
Always consult with a healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and treatment decisions.
The Centor score should be used in conjunction with clinical judgment and local antibiotic resistance patterns.
Understanding the Centor Score
Clinical Background
The Centor Score helps clinicians differentiate between bacterial (streptococcal) and viral causes of pharyngitis. It was developed to reduce unnecessary antibiotic prescriptions while ensuring appropriate treatment of streptococcal infections.
Why It Matters
- •Reduces inappropriate antibiotic use
- •Prevents complications of untreated strep throat
- •Guides clinical decision-making
- •Cost-effective diagnostic approach
The Five Criteria
1. Fever >38°C (100.4°F)
Bacterial infections typically cause higher fevers
2. Tonsillar Exudates
White/yellow patches on tonsils suggest bacterial infection
3. Tender Cervical Lymph Nodes
Swollen, tender nodes in the neck region
4. Absence of Cough
Viral infections more commonly cause cough
5. Age Factor
Children more susceptible, adults >45 less likely
⚠️ Medical Disclaimer
This calculator provides clinical guidance based on established medical criteria. However, it should never replace professional medical judgment. Individual patient factors, local resistance patterns, and clinical presentation may require deviation from these guidelines. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and treatment decisions.