DRAGON Score for Post-tPA Stroke Outcome
Predicts functional outcome 3 months after IV tPA for ischaemic stroke. Score 0–1 = good outcome >95%. Score 8–10 = poor outcome >96%.
Score interpretation
DRAGON 0–3 — good functional outcome at 3 months likely (mRS 0–2 >60%)
→ Proceed with tPA; good prognosis expected; standard post-thrombolysis monitoring
DRAGON 4–5 — intermediate prognosis; mixed outcomes expected
→ Clinical judgment on thrombolysis; family counselling on realistic outcomes; goal-directed care
DRAGON ≥6 — poor functional outcome (mRS 5–6) or death likely despite tPA (>50%)
→ Pre-procedure counselling with family about realistic outcomes; consider goals of care; tPA not contraindicated but outcomes likely poor; thrombectomy assessment important
Interpretation bands for the DRAGON Score. Apply clinical judgement and local guidance.
References
- Strbian D et al. Predicting outcome of IV thrombolysis-treated ischemic stroke patients: the DRAGON score. Neurology. 2012;78(6):427–432.
Related
Curated clinical cross-links plus same-class fallbacks.
- Tenecteplase (Stroke) · Stroke Thrombolysis
- Lisinopril (HFrEF / Post-MI) · ACE Inhibitor / HFrEF
- Colchicine (Pericarditis / Post-MI Inflammation) · Pericarditis / Coronary Inflammation
- Clopidogrel (ACS / Post-PCI) · Antiplatelet / ACS
- Alteplase (STEMI Thrombolysis) · Thrombolytic / STEMI
- Streptokinase (STEMI Thrombolysis) · Thrombolytic / STEMI
- Acute Stroke / TIA Assessment · NICE NG128; RCP Stroke Guidelines 2023
- Status Epilepticus (Adults) · NICE CG137; ESEM guidelines; RCP Neurology Guidelines
- Suspected Subarachnoid Haemorrhage · NICE NG228; RCEM 2023; AHA/ASA 2023
- Adult Head Injury · NICE NG232 (2023)
- Bell's Palsy / Facial Nerve Palsy · ENT UK 2017; AAN
- Vertigo Workup · ENT UK; NICE CKS
Decision support only — verify against a current formulary, NICE, or your local guideline before clinical use.