ObjectiveTo derive performance characteristics for the Glasgow Meningococcal Septicemia Prognostic Score (GMSPS).DesignRetrospective case-note study.SettingTwo children's hospitals with Regional Intensive Care Unit.PatientsOne hundred twenty-three children with proven meningococcal septicemia (some with concurrent meningitis) from January 1, 1977 to December 31, 1986.Measurements and Main ResultsAll 14 children who died after arrival scored ≥8 either on admission (n = 8) or afterward (n = 6). Of 109 survivors, five scored ≥8 (two were postictal at the time of scoring). A GMSPS of ≥10 at or after admission predicted death with sensitivity 100%, specificity 98%, and positive predictive value of 88%; for GMSPS of both ≥8 or 9, the values were 100%, 95%, and 74%, respectively.ConclusionThe GMSPS is a rapid clinical score that performs well in identifying children with poor prognosis who might benefit from early intensive care. It should be studied prospectively and compared with other scoring systems. (Crit Care Med 1991; 19:26)