Pediatric Appendicitis Score (PAS)
Samuel's Pediatric Appendicitis Score assesses risk of acute appendicitis in children. More sensitive for paediatric appendicitis than the Alvarado score in children.
Score interpretation
PAS 0–2 — appendicitis unlikely. Negative predictive value >96%.
→ Discharge with safety netting; return if symptoms worsen; avoid unnecessary imaging
PAS 3–6 — equivocal; further investigation needed
→ Ultrasound abdomen; observe for 6–12h; serial abdominal exams; surgical review if worsening
PAS 7–10 — high likelihood of appendicitis
→ Urgent surgical review; laparoscopic appendicectomy; pre-operative antibiotics
Interpretation bands for the PAS. Apply clinical judgement and local guidance.
References
- Samuel M. Pediatric appendicitis score. J Pediatr Surg. 2002;37(6):877–881.
Related
Curated clinical cross-links plus same-class fallbacks.
- Paracetamol (Paediatric) · Analgesic / Antipyretic — First-Line Pain and Fever in Children
- Morphine (Paediatric) · Opioid Analgesic — Moderate to Severe Pain in Children
- Ibuprofen (Orthopaedic Musculoskeletal Pain) · NSAID — Non-selective COX Inhibitor
- Ibuprofen (Paediatric) · NSAID / Analgesic / Antipyretic
- Gentamicin (Paediatric) · Aminoglycoside — Neonatal Sepsis / Gram-Negative Infections in Children
- Vancomycin (Paediatric) · Glycopeptide Antibiotic — MRSA / Severe Gram-Positive Infections in Children
Decision support only — verify against a current formulary, NICE, or your local guideline before clinical use.