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🩺 Wells Score Calculator (DVT/PE)

Estimate the pre-test probability of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or pulmonary embolism (PE) using the Wells clinical prediction rules. Actual diagnosis requires ultrasound, D-dimer, CT imaging, and a clinician's overall judgment.

⚠️ Medical Disclaimer
This tool is for educational and reference purposes only and cannot replace medical diagnosis or treatment decisions. The Wells score only helps decide whether further testing is needed - it is not a diagnosis by itself. If you have leg pain, swelling, or shortness of breath, please consult a medical professional.
DVT Risk Factors (check all that apply, +1 point each)
Total Score
0
Risk Level
—
⚠️ Medical Disclaimer
This tool is for educational and reference purposes only and cannot replace medical diagnosis or treatment decisions. The Wells score only helps decide whether further testing is needed - it is not a diagnosis by itself. If you have leg pain, swelling, or shortness of breath, please consult a medical professional.
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GUIDE

Learn more

01

What Is the Wells Score?

The Wells' Criteria, developed by Canadian physician Philip Wells, are clinical prediction rules that estimate the pre-test probability of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or pulmonary embolism (PE) from history and physical exam findings alone. They are widely used to guide the sequence of D-dimer and imaging tests.
02

How the DVT Wells Score Is Calculated

Each of 9 risk factors adds +1 point; 2 points are subtracted if an alternative diagnosis is at least as likely as DVT. The total ranges from -2 to 9.

Three-tier interpretation: 0 or below = low risk (~5%), 1-2 = moderate (~17%), 3+ = high (~53%).
Two-tier (MDCalc-recommended): below 2 = "DVT unlikely", 2 or above = "DVT likely".
03

How the PE Wells Score Is Calculated

Seven weighted items are summed: PE the most likely diagnosis (3 pts), clinical signs of DVT (3 pts), heart rate over 100 (1.5 pts), recent immobilization/surgery (1.5 pts), previous DVT/PE (1.5 pts), hemoptysis (1 pt), active cancer (1 pt).

Three-tier: 0-1 low, 2-6 moderate, over 6 high.
Two-tier: 4 or below "PE unlikely", above 4 "PE likely".
04

Relationship With D-dimer Testing

When the Wells score falls in the low/unlikely category, a negative D-dimer often safely rules out DVT/PE. In moderate-to-high categories, imaging (ultrasound, CT pulmonary angiography) is generally still needed even with a negative D-dimer.
05

Limitations of the Wells Score

Accuracy may be lower in specific populations such as cancer patients, pregnant patients, and inpatients. The rule also includes subjective judgments ("alternative diagnosis" or "PE most likely"), so scoring can vary between clinicians. It must always be interpreted alongside the full clinical picture.
06

Emergency Warning Signs of DVT/PE

Seek emergency care immediately if you experience:
• Sudden shortness of breath or chest pain
• Coughing up blood
• Rapid onset of swelling, pain, or redness in one leg
• Fainting or severe dizziness
• Rapid heart rate together with low blood pressure

Frequently asked questions

Does a high Wells score confirm DVT or PE?
No. The Wells score only estimates pre-test probability - confirming the diagnosis requires further testing such as ultrasound, D-dimer, or CT pulmonary angiography. This calculator is for education and reference only and cannot replace a medical professional's diagnosis.
Why are the DVT and PE scoring systems different?
DVT items are each worth a simple +1 point, while PE items are weighted 1 to 3 points based on their clinical importance, since the two conditions have different risk factors and predictive strength - each rule was validated separately.
What if my score is low but symptoms continue?
Even with a low Wells score, seek medical evaluation if symptoms persist or worsen. Never use this tool's result alone as a reason to delay seeing a doctor.