Capurro Method Gestational Age Calculator
Estimate newborn gestational age with the somatic Capurro method — skin texture, ear shape, breast size, nipple formation and plantar creases — in weeks and days, with term or preterm classification.
How it works
Gestational age (days) = 204 + skin texture (0–20) + ear shape (0–24) + breast size (0–15) + nipple formation (0–15) + plantar creases (0–20); weeks = days ÷ 7. Possible range: 29 weeks 1 day to 43 weeks 2 days.
The Capurro method (Capurro, Konichezky, Fonseca and Caldeyro-Barcia, 1978) estimates gestational age at birth from five physical (somatic) characteristics of the newborn. It is a simplification of the Dubowitz method, developed in Uruguay, and is still the standard bedside method in much of Latin America. Points are added to a constant of 204 days. The original Capurro A version added two neurological signs with a constant of 200; the somatic version shown here is used when the baby is unwell or sedated. A dating ultrasound in the first trimester is more accurate when available.
Worked example
A newborn with thicker skin and slight peeling (10), pinna curved along the whole upper part (16), a 5–10 mm breast bud (10), an areola stippled with an unraised edge (10) and well-defined marks on the front half of the sole (10) has 56 points: 204 + 56 = 260 days = 37 weeks 1 day — term.
Frequently asked questions
How accurate is the Capurro test?
It is a physical estimate with an error margin of roughly one to one and a half weeks either way, which is why an early ultrasound or a reliable last menstrual period date is preferred for dating.
What is the difference between Capurro A and B?
Capurro A combines four somatic and two neurological signs (scarf sign and head drop) with a constant of 200 days. Capurro B (somatic) uses five physical signs and a constant of 204, so it can be done in sick or sedated babies.
Can the Capurro method be used in very premature babies?
No. Its lowest possible result is about 29 weeks, so the New Ballard Score is used for extremely preterm infants.
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Clinical decision tool for education and for use by trained clinicians alongside clinical judgement — not a diagnosis and not a substitute for medical assessment. Scores validated in specific populations may not apply to every patient.