CADILLAC Risk Score: Clinical Guide

Clinical guide to CADILLAC Risk Score including calculation, interpretation, assumptions, limitations and references.

Estimates 1-year mortality after primary PCI for acute myocardial infarction.

Overview

Estimates 1-year mortality after primary PCI for acute myocardial infarction.

Clinical Significance

Scores 0–2 are low, 3–5 intermediate and ≥6 high risk for 1-year mortality.

When to Use

  • Use as structured clinical decision support when the required data are available and reliable.

How It Is Calculated

  • The displayed variables are combined using the published equation, decision rule or weighted point system.

Interpretation

  • Scores 0–2 are low, 3–5 intermediate and ≥6 high risk for 1-year mortality.

Worked Example

Enter verified patient data in the displayed units; MedicalC applies the published model.

Limitations

  • Risk and classification tools can be misapplied outside their validated population.
  • Missing, estimated or non-contemporaneous data may materially change the result.

Clinical Pearls

  • Document the input values, units, date and clinical setting with the result.
  • Use serial scores only when the same instrument and measurement method are used consistently.

Common Mistakes

  • Using the tool without confirming entry criteria.
  • Using approximate or incorrectly converted laboratory values.
  • Treating a prognostic score as a standalone treatment decision.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does this tool calculate?

Estimates 1-year mortality after primary PCI for acute myocardial infarction.

Can this result be used alone?

No. Interpret it with the full clinical assessment, applicable entry criteria and current guidance.

References

  1. Halkin A et al. J Am Coll Cardiol. 2005;45:1397-1405. — Primary or supporting reference for the implemented model.

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

Return to calculator