HALP Score: Clinical Guide

Clinical guide to HALP Score including formula, assumptions, units, interpretation, limitations and references.

Calculates the haemoglobin, albumin, lymphocyte and platelet (HALP) score.

Overview

Calculates the haemoglobin, albumin, lymphocyte and platelet (HALP) score.

Clinical Significance

An observational prognostic index studied mainly in oncology. Cut-offs are tumour- and cohort-specific and should not be generalised.

How It Is Calculated

  • HALP = haemoglobin × albumin × lymphocytes / platelets.

Interpretation

  • An observational prognostic index studied mainly in oncology. Cut-offs are tumour- and cohort-specific and should not be generalised.

Worked Example

Enter a clinically consistent set of values in the displayed units. MedicalC applies: HALP = haemoglobin × albumin × lymphocytes / platelets.

Limitations

  • This tool does not establish a diagnosis or mandate treatment.
  • Published cut-offs may vary between cohorts and measurement methods.
  • Calculation precision cannot compensate for poor source data.

Clinical Pearls

  • Trend the result over time where clinically appropriate.
  • Record the source values and units alongside the calculated result.

Common Mistakes

  • Using the wrong unit.
  • Combining measurements obtained at different times.
  • Applying a research-derived threshold as a universal treatment trigger.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does this calculator provide?

Calculates the haemoglobin, albumin, lymphocyte and platelet (HALP) score.

Can this result be used alone?

No. It must be interpreted with clinical context and appropriate investigations.

What equation is used?

HALP = haemoglobin × albumin × lymphocytes / platelets.

What is the main limitation?

The result depends on valid inputs and may not be calibrated for every population or setting.

References

  1. Chen XL et al. A new inflammation-based score (HALP) predicts survival in patients with gastric carcinoma. Oncotarget. 2015. — Formula, physiological or validation reference.

Reviewed by: MedicalC Clinical Editorial Team
Last reviewed: July 2026

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