• Emergencies
  • Pulmonology
  • Cardiology
  • Vascular medicine

Wells EP score

Probability of pulmonary embolism

The Wells score for pulmonary embolism organizes several clinical features to estimate the pre-test probability of PE. It is used in diagnostic strategies combined, as appropriate, with PERC, D-dimer, and imaging. A high score does not confirm PE; a low score does not exempt from applying the corresponding diagnostic algorithm.

Number of questions
7 criteria
Approximate duration
2 minutes
Population
Adults with suspected pulmonary embolism
Modality
clinical score

QuestionnaireWells EP

CLINICIAN SCORE

The clinician assesses seven criteria (clinical signs of DVT, PE more likely than an alternative diagnosis, heart rate > 100 bpm, recent immobilisation or surgery, previous DVT or PE, haemoptysis, active cancer), each scored from 1 to 3 points and added together, for a total score ranging from 0 to 12.5.

Are you patient?

Several criteria require a clinical examination and medical judgment. This score is not designed to determine on your own, at home, whether you have a pulmonary embolism. In the event of acute chest pain, severe shortness of breath, or faintness, seek urgent medical attention.

Question 1 / 7

1

Clinical signs of DVT

Terms of contract

The score is completed by a clinician, following a medical history and physical examination, in a patient with suspected pulmonary embolism; it is not designed for self-assessment. The criterion 'PE more likely than an alternative diagnosis' requires having considered alternative diagnoses, and the result is integrated into the associated diagnostic algorithm (D-dimer, imaging). Immobilisation for more than 3 days or surgery in the previous four weeks. Cancer: ongoing treatment, within the last six months, or palliative.

Score interpretationWells EP

Sum of points for criteria present (3, 1.5 or 1 point depending on the criterion). Score from 0 to 12.5.

Total score

First reading

  • 0 to 4

    Score ≤ 4: PE unlikely.

  • 4.5 to 12.5

    Score > 4: PE likely.

≤ 4: PE unlikely; > 4: PE likely.

Thresholds must be linked to a validated diagnostic algorithm and performance varies depending on the healthcare setting.

Frequently asked questions

Sources and references

Wells PS et al.

Wells PS et al., Ann Intern Med, 2001

Questionnaires and associated scores

Integrate questionnaires into your practice

One-off collection or questionnaire integrated into a journey: let's discuss your needs with Aldebaran.

Test Aldebaran