Wells score for pulmonary embolism (PE)
The Wells score estimates the clinical probability of pulmonary embolism from seven weighted criteria.
⚠︎ Learning tool for medical education – not for use in patients or for treatment decisions.
Classification (original publication)
| Score | Classification (original publication) |
|---|---|
| ≤ 4 | PE unlikely – two-level model according to van Belle 2006 |
| > 4 | PE likely – two-level model according to van Belle 2006 |
Two- and three-level interpretation
Today the two-level model is most common: up to 4 points unlikely, above 4 likely (van Belle 2006). In the original three-level model, below 2 points means low, 2–6 intermediate and above 6 high clinical probability.
FAQ
What is the three-level Wells model?▾
In the original model (Wells 2000), below 2 points means low, 2–6 intermediate and above 6 points high clinical probability.
References
- Wells PS et al. Derivation of a simple clinical model to categorize patients probability of pulmonary embolism. Thromb Haemost 2000;83:416–20. · PubMed
- van Belle A et al. Effectiveness of managing suspected pulmonary embolism using an algorithm combining clinical probability, D-dimer testing, and computed tomography. JAMA 2006;295:172–9. · PubMed
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InnereFuchs bundles Wells, CHA₂DS₂-VA, HAS-BLED, CRB-65, qSOFA, Child-Pugh, eGFR and more – together with flashcards and exam questions.
Open in browser Download on the App StoreIntended purpose: learning tool for medical education only. Not intended for use in patients or for diagnostic or treatment decisions; not a medical device. Calculations follow the cited original publications; no guarantee of completeness or correctness. Last updated: 09/2026 · Dr. Pascal Bafteh