The Geneva Score is a widely used clinical prediction tool designed to assess the likelihood that a patient is experiencing a pulmonary embolism (PE), which is a potentially life-threatening condition caused by a blood clot blocking one or more arteries in the lungs. Pulmonary embolism can develop suddenly and requires prompt medical attention, but its symptoms can often mimic other health issues, making early diagnosis challenging. That’s where the Geneva Score becomes a helpful resource.
The score relies solely on objective clinical factors that can be easily identified through patient history and a basic physical examination. These factors include the patient’s age, previous history of venous thromboembolism, recent surgery or immobilization, active cancer, symptoms like leg pain or swelling, hemoptysis (coughing up blood), and elevated heart rate. Each of these factors is assigned a specific number of points based on how strongly they are associated with PE.
Once all applicable factors are checked, the total score is calculated. The final result classifies the patient into one of three categories: low, moderate, or high probability of pulmonary embolism. This classification helps healthcare providers decide on the next steps, such as whether additional testing like a D-dimer test or a CT pulmonary angiogram is needed.
Because it avoids the need for lab work or imaging at the initial stage, the Geneva Score is especially useful in emergency departments, outpatient settings, and areas where quick, efficient assessment is critical. However, it’s important to remember that the Geneva Score is only a screening tool and should not replace clinical judgment or more definitive diagnostic methods.
You should use the Pulmonary Embolism Geneva Score Calculator when there is a clinical suspicion of pulmonary embolism (PE), especially in situations where quick assessment is needed to determine the likelihood of PE before ordering more advanced tests. This tool is most helpful for healthcare professionals in emergency rooms, clinics, or outpatient settings where patients present with symptoms such as:
The calculator is designed to support—but not replace—clinical judgment. It provides a quick way to estimate the probability of PE based on key clinical factors. It can be especially useful:
The Geneva Score works by assigning a specific number of points to various clinical risk factors that are known to be associated with pulmonary embolism (PE). These factors are based on a patient’s medical history, symptoms, and simple physical findings. Each factor reflects the statistical likelihood of PE being present, and the total score helps categorize the patient’s overall risk.
The original and revised Geneva Scores use objective data only—meaning no subjective clinical judgment is required—which makes the scoring system more consistent and reliable. Here’s how it works:
This classification helps guide further diagnostic steps. For example:
The Geneva Score is based on a set of objective clinical criteria. Each item contributes a specific number of points to the overall score, which helps determine the probability that a patient has a pulmonary embolism (PE). Below is a detailed explanation of each criterion used in the calculator:
Patients aged over 65 years are at increased risk for PE. This criterion adds 1 point to the total score.
A personal history of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or pulmonary embolism significantly increases the risk of recurrence. This adds 3 points to the score.
Surgical procedures or being immobilized (such as bed rest or a cast) reduce blood flow, increasing clot risk. This adds 2 points.
Cancer, especially when active or recently treated, raises the risk of blood clots. This contributes 2 points to the score.
Spontaneous pain in one leg, especially the calf, can be a sign of deep vein thrombosis, a major cause of PE. This symptom adds 3 points.
Swelling or tenderness when pressing on the calf muscles may indicate DVT. This adds 4 points to the score.
Hemoptysis can be a sign of lung tissue damage caused by a blood clot. This symptom adds 2 points.
A slightly elevated heart rate may suggest the body is compensating for reduced oxygen from a potential PE. This adds 3 points.
A significantly high heart rate is a more serious warning sign. This adds 5 points and automatically overrides the previous heart rate category.
Once all relevant factors are selected, the calculator adds the points together to estimate the overall probability of PE and guide further steps.
The Pulmonary Embolism Geneva Score Calculator is designed to be quick and easy to use, especially in clinical or urgent care settings. It helps estimate the likelihood that a patient is experiencing a pulmonary embolism (PE) based on specific medical criteria. Follow the steps below to use the calculator effectively:
After using the Geneva Score Calculator, you'll receive two outputs: a numerical score and a probability level indicating the risk of pulmonary embolism (PE). This result helps determine the next steps in diagnosis or management. Here’s what each category means:
A low probability score suggests that the likelihood of a pulmonary embolism is minimal. In many cases, if the patient has no other concerning symptoms or risk factors, further testing such as a D-dimer blood test may not be necessary. However, if clinical suspicion remains high, doctors may still recommend additional evaluation. Always consider the full clinical picture.
A moderate probability score indicates that there is a significant chance the patient may have a PE. This typically requires further diagnostic testing, such as a D-dimer test or imaging (e.g., CT pulmonary angiogram), to confirm or rule out the diagnosis. Prompt evaluation is important to prevent complications if a PE is present.
A high probability score suggests a strong likelihood of pulmonary embolism. In this case, immediate diagnostic imaging and possibly urgent treatment may be necessary, even before test results are available. Early detection and intervention can be lifesaving, so this score level should always be taken seriously.
Once you receive your Geneva Score and its corresponding probability level, it’s important to take the right steps based on the result. The score provides an estimate—not a diagnosis—and should be followed by appropriate clinical decisions or testing. Here’s a general guide to what you should do next based on your score:
The calculator is designed for use by healthcare professionals such as doctors, nurses, and medical staff to help assess the probability of pulmonary embolism (PE) based on clinical signs and history. It is not intended for self-diagnosis or use by the general public.
No, the Geneva Score does not confirm the presence of PE. It is a clinical prediction tool that helps estimate the likelihood of PE and guides decisions about further testing. A confirmed diagnosis requires imaging and/or blood tests.
If your score indicates a high probability of PE, seek immediate medical attention. A high score suggests a strong chance of pulmonary embolism, and prompt diagnostic imaging and treatment may be necessary.
Both are clinical tools used to assess PE risk. The Geneva Score uses only objective criteria, such as age, heart rate, and medical history. The Wells Score includes some subjective judgment by the clinician, such as the likelihood of PE being the most probable diagnosis.
Yes, the calculator can be used as often as needed. It's helpful in various clinical situations, especially when new symptoms arise or if the patient's condition changes.
The Geneva Score has been validated in clinical studies and is considered reliable for estimating PE probability. However, it should always be used alongside clinical judgment and not as the sole basis for decision-making.
The calculator is designed to accept only one heart rate category. If the heart rate is over 94 bpm, you should select that option, which overrides the lower category. Do not select both.
If none of the criteria apply, your score will be 0, indicating a very low probability of PE. Even so, always consider the full clinical picture and consult with a healthcare provider if symptoms persist or worsen.
The Pulmonary Embolism Geneva Score Calculator is provided for educational and informational purposes only. It is intended to assist healthcare professionals in estimating the probability of pulmonary embolism (PE) based on established clinical criteria. This tool is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
While the calculator uses evidence-based guidelines, it should not be relied upon as the sole basis for clinical decision-making. Always consider the complete clinical context, additional tests, and individual patient factors before making any diagnosis or treatment plan.
If you are a patient or a member of the general public, do not use this calculator to self-diagnose or make healthcare decisions. If you are experiencing symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, or coughing up blood, seek immediate medical attention from a qualified healthcare provider.
The developers of this tool and the website hosting it are not responsible for any medical outcomes resulting from the use or misuse of the calculator. Use of this tool constitutes acceptance of these terms.