Wells' score — PE
Pre-test probability of pulmonary embolism.
What it is for
PE workup. Score ≤ 4 → D-dimer; > 4 → CTPA (NICE NG158).
Use the working calculator
The working Wells' score — PE calculator is on our calculators page. It is free and needs no account. Enter the values and it shows the result with the reading that goes with it.
The calculators are free. The trial opens the protocols and pathways they link to.What you enter
The calculator asks for 7 items.
- Clinical signs / symptoms of DVT (3 points)
- PE as likely as or more likely than alternative diagnosis (3 points)
- HR > 100/min (1.5 points)
- Immobilisation ≥ 3 days OR surgery in last 4 weeks (1.5 points)
- Previous DVT / PE (1.5 points)
- Haemoptysis (1 point)
- Active malignancy (treatment within 6 months / palliative) (1 point)
How the result is read
The result is shown as Wells' (PE) score, out of a maximum of 12.5.
The calculator reads each total as follows. Where a single answer changes the reading (for example sex, age or one extreme value), the working calculator says so.
| Total | Band | What the calculator says |
|---|---|---|
| 0 to 4 | PE unlikely | D-dimer (high-sensitivity). If D-dimer negative → PE excluded. If positive → CTPA (or V/Q if contraindication). NICE NG158. |
| 4.5 to 12.5 | PE likely | NICE NG158: PE likely band — see the PE protocol and NICE NG158 for imaging and interim anticoagulation. NICE NG158 sets out what to do if imaging is delayed. |
Sources
These are the sources the calculator cites. Check the current version before relying on a threshold.
Related
For qualified clinicians. A score supports a clinical decision and does not make it: check the inputs, read the cited source, and use the tools in your clinical system for patient care where one is provided.