SOFA Score
Quantifies organ dysfunction in ICU/HDU; sequential increase ≥2 defines sepsis
How to use & interpret
The SOFA score quantifies organ dysfunction across six systems (respiratory, coagulation, liver, cardiovascular, central nervous system and renal), each scored 0–4. It underpins the Sepsis-3 definition: sepsis is suspected or confirmed infection with an acute rise in SOFA of ≥2 points.
It is primarily an intensive-care tool for tracking organ dysfunction and prognosis over time. For rapid screening outside critical care, qSOFA or (in the UK) NEWS2 is used instead.
Score interpretation
SOFA 0–6: <10% predicted mortality
→ Monitor; treat underlying cause
SOFA 7–9: ~15–20% predicted mortality
→ ICU/HDU monitoring; organ support as needed
SOFA 10–12: ~40–50% predicted mortality
→ Full organ support; ICU escalation
SOFA ≥13: >50–80% predicted mortality
→ Maximal organ support; senior critical care input; goals of care discussion
Interpretation bands for the SOFA. Apply clinical judgement and local guidance.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between SOFA and qSOFA?
SOFA is a detailed organ-dysfunction score needing laboratory values, used mainly in ICU; qSOFA is a 3-item bedside prompt to raise suspicion of sepsis outside ICU.
References
- Vincent JL, et al. The SOFA (Sepsis-related Organ Failure Assessment) score to describe organ dysfunction/failure. Intensive Care Med. 1996;22(7):707–10.
Related
Curated clinical cross-links plus same-class fallbacks.
- Difficult Airway Algorithm (DAS) · DAS 2015; Royal College of Anaesthetists
- Major Haemorrhage Protocol · NICE NG24; UK MHP guidelines
- New-Onset Atrial Fibrillation · ESC 2020 AF Guidelines; NICE NG196
- Hypertensive Emergency · ESC/ESH 2018 Hypertension Guidelines; NICE NG136
- Bradycardia Management · Resuscitation Council UK ABCDE; ESC 2021 Pacing Guidelines
- Ventricular Tachycardia / Fibrillation · Resuscitation Council UK ACLS; ESC 2022 Ventricular Arrhythmia Guidelines
Featured in these MRCEM clinical pathways
The SOFA is covered in detail — with RCEM/NICE evidence base, indications and pitfalls — in the following exam-focused pathways on our sister siteReviseMRCEM.
MRCEM Primary / Intermediate / OSCE candidates: each pathway includes exam-style questions, RCEM/NICE citations, and FAQ summaries.
Decision support only — verify against a current formulary, NICE, or your local guideline before clinical use.