CARG — Cancer and Aging Research Group Chemotherapy Toxicity Score
11-item predictive tool for grade 3+ chemotherapy toxicity in adults ≥65 with cancer (Hurria 2011, validated 2016). Age, tumour, regimen factors, lab values and geriatric assessment items. Score 0–19. Use the band closest to your calculated total.
Score interpretation
→ Standard chemotherapy regimen.
→ Discuss dose modification or G-CSF prophylaxis. Closer monitoring during cycles 1–2. CGA-led optimisation. Consider less-toxic alternatives if available.
→ Highly individualised treatment plan: consider alternative less-toxic regimen, dose reduction (25–30%), or targeted therapy / immunotherapy if biomarker-eligible. Engage palliative care upfront. Weekly review initial cycles. Detailed informed consent on toxicity probabilities.
Interpretation bands for the CARG. Apply clinical judgement and local guidance.
References
Related
Curated clinical cross-links plus same-class fallbacks.
- Cisplatin · Platinum Chemotherapy — Head and Neck Cancer
- Folinic Acid (Calcium Folinate / Leucovorin) · Antidote / Chemotherapy Support
- Zoledronic Acid · Bisphosphonate (IV)
- Denosumab · RANK Ligand Inhibitor (Anti-resorptive)
- Cetuximab · Anti-EGFR Monoclonal Antibody — Head and Neck Cancer
- Methotrexate · Chemotherapy / Immunosuppressant — Head and Neck / Granulomatosis
- Falls Assessment in Older Adults · NICE CG161 2013
- Anaemia Investigation · BSH / NICE
- Lower Respiratory Tract Infection (Primary Care) · NICE NG138 / NICE antimicrobial guidance
- Hypertension Management · NICE NG136 2019
- Delirium Outside ICU · NICE CG103
- Comprehensive Geriatric Assessment (CGA) · BGS / NICE
Decision support only — verify against a current formulary, NICE, or your local guideline before clinical use.