Wells criteria for pulmonary embolism
Pretest probability of pulmonary embolism.
Inputs
Clinical signs of DVT
PE is the most likely diagnosis
Heart rate above 100
Immobilization 3 days or surgery in past 4 weeks
Previous PE or DVT
Hemoptysis
Malignancy with treatment within 6 months
Worked calculation
Your values are highlighted.
- Points
When to use
- Suspected PE in a stable patient.
Pearls and pitfalls
- If PE is unlikely, a negative D-dimer (or PERC in low-risk patients) can rule out PE.
Why use
Gives both the two-tier and three-tier interpretation.
| Criterion | Points |
|---|---|
| Clinical signs of DVT | +3 |
| PE is the most likely diagnosis | +3 |
| Heart rate above 100 | +1.5 |
| Immobilization 3 days or surgery in past 4 weeks | +1.5 |
| Previous PE or DVT | +1.5 |
| Hemoptysis | +1 |
| Malignancy with treatment within 6 months | +1 |
Three-tier: low probability.