Wells PE Score Calculator
Calculate the Wells clinical prediction score for pulmonary embolism (PE) pretest probability.
Helps clinicians determine if further testing is needed.
What Is the Wells PE Score? The Wells score for pulmonary embolism (PE) is a validated clinical decision tool developed by Dr. Philip Wells. It helps clinicians estimate the pre-test probability that a patient has a pulmonary embolism — a blood clot in the lung — based on clinical signs, symptoms, and risk factors.
The Seven Criteria Each criterion is scored based on clinical findings at the time of evaluation:
| Criterion | Points |
|---|---|
| Clinical signs/symptoms of DVT | 3.0 |
| PE is #1 diagnosis OR equally likely | 3.0 |
| Heart rate > 100 bpm | 1.5 |
| Immobilization ≥ 3 days or surgery in past 4 weeks | 1.5 |
| Previous DVT or PE | 1.5 |
| Hemoptysis (coughing up blood) | 1.0 |
| Active malignancy (treatment or palliation in past 6 months) | 1.0 |
Score Interpretation (Two-Level) ≤ 4 points: PE Unlikely — consider D-dimer testing. If D-dimer negative, PE is effectively ruled out.
4 points: PE Likely — consider CT pulmonary angiography (CTPA) regardless of D-dimer.
Three-Level Interpretation < 2 points: Low probability (~1–3% PE prevalence) 2–6 points: Moderate probability (~16–28% PE prevalence)
6 points: High probability (~40–67% PE prevalence)
Clinical Context The Wells PE score is used alongside D-dimer blood tests and imaging (CTPA, V/Q scan). A low Wells score + negative D-dimer effectively excludes PE without the need for imaging. A high Wells score warrants imaging even if D-dimer is negative.
Important: This tool is for educational purposes only. Clinical decision-making requires full patient assessment by a licensed healthcare provider. Do not use this calculator as a substitute for professional medical judgment.
Enter each criterion as 1 (Yes/Present) or 0 (No/Absent).