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Wells Score PE Calculator

Estimate pre-test probability of pulmonary embolism using the Wells criteria. Enter values for instant results with step-by-step formulas.

Reviewed by Rahul Singh, Health & Wellness Specialist

Reviewed by Rahul Singh, Health & Wellness Specialist

Formula

Wells PE Score = Sum of clinical criteria points (range: 0 to 12.5)

Points are assigned based on clinical criteria. DVT signs and PE as #1 diagnosis carry the highest weight (3 points each). The score determines pre-test probability and guides diagnostic strategy. Two-tier model: ≤4 (PE unlikely, use D-dimer) vs. >4 (PE likely, proceed to CTPA).

Worked Examples

Example 1: Low Probability PE

Problem:35-year-old with pleuritic chest pain, HR 88, no risk factors.

Solution:No criteria met\nTotal Wells = 0\nProbability: Low (~1.3%)\nWorkup: D-dimer (consider PERC first)

Result:Wells 0 — Low Probability, D-dimer to exclude

Example 2: High Probability PE

Problem:Post-surgical patient with acute dyspnea, HR 110, DVT signs, hemoptysis.

Solution:DVT signs: +3\nPE #1 diagnosis: +3\nHR >100: +1.5\nImmobilization/surgery: +1.5\nHemoptysis: +1\nTotal Wells = 10\nProbability: High (~40.6%)\nWorkup: CTPA immediately

Result:Wells 10 — High Probability, CTPA and empiric anticoagulation

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Wells score for PE?

The Wells score for pulmonary embolism is a validated clinical prediction rule that estimates the pre-test probability of PE. It assigns points based on clinical findings and risk factors, producing a score that stratifies patients into probability categories. The original three-tier model divides patients into low (<2), moderate (2-6), and high (>6) probability. The simplified two-tier model uses a cutoff of 4: PE unlikely (≤4) vs. PE likely (>4).

What is the two-tier vs. three-tier Wells model?

The three-tier model stratifies into low (0-1), moderate (2-6), and high (>6) probability with PE prevalences of ~1.3%, ~16.2%, and ~40.6% respectively. The two-tier (dichotomized) model uses a cutoff of 4: PE unlikely (≤4, prevalence ~8%) vs. PE likely (>4, prevalence ~34%). The two-tier model is simpler and commonly used with D-dimer testing to safely exclude PE in the 'unlikely' group.

References

Reviewed by Rahul Singh, Health & Wellness Specialist · Editorial policy