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SIRS Criteria — Free Online Calculator

SIRS Criteria

Note: SIRS + suspected infection = Sepsis (by the 1992 ACCP/SCCM definition). The Sepsis-3 definition (2016) uses SOFA criteria instead.

SIRS Score

0

SIRS criteria NOT met

About This Calculator

The Systemic Inflammatory Response Syndrome (SIRS) criteria identify patients with a systemic inflammatory response. Meeting ≥ 2 criteria defines SIRS. While SIRS is non-specific and can result from infection, trauma, burns, or pancreatitis, SIRS with a suspected source of infection was historically used to define sepsis (prior to Sepsis-3). The SIRS criteria remain widely used for early identification of critically ill patients.

Formula

SIRS Score = Sum of criteria met (0–4)
SIRS positive if ≥ 2 criteria are met

Interpretation

ScoreInterpretation
0 – 1SIRS criteria not met
2SIRS positive
3SIRS positive
4SIRS positive (all criteria met)

References

  1. Bone RC, et al. Definitions for sepsis and organ failure and guidelines for the use of innovative therapies in sepsis. Chest. 1992;101(6):1644-1655.
  2. Kaukonen KM, et al. Systemic inflammatory response syndrome criteria in defining severe sepsis. N Engl J Med. 2015;372(17):1629-1638.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is SIRS still used to define sepsis?

No. Since the Sepsis-3 definition in 2016, sepsis is defined by SOFA score ≥ 2 with suspected infection, not by SIRS criteria. However, SIRS criteria are still widely used for early identification of systemic inflammation and in some clinical protocols.

Can SIRS be positive without infection?

Yes. SIRS is a non-specific inflammatory response. It can be triggered by trauma, surgery, burns, pancreatitis, autoimmune disorders, and many other non-infectious conditions.

What is the sensitivity of SIRS for detecting sepsis?

SIRS criteria are highly sensitive (~90%) but have poor specificity for infection. Many non-infected ICU patients meet SIRS criteria. Conversely, some septic patients (up to 12%) may not meet SIRS criteria, which was one reason for the Sepsis-3 revision.

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⚠ Medical Disclaimer

This tool is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for clinical decisions.