Pediatric Ulcerative Colitis Activity Index (PUCAI)
Non-invasive clinical score for disease activity in paediatric ulcerative colitis. Validated as an alternative to endoscopy in children. Remission: <10. Severe: ≥65.
Score interpretation
PUCAI <10 — clinical remission
→ Maintain current therapy; routine monitoring every 3–6 months; endoscopy if required for step-down decision
PUCAI 10–34 — mild UC activity
→ Optimise 5-ASA dose; consider adding topical therapy; review in 4–6 weeks
PUCAI 35–64 — moderate UC activity
→ Oral corticosteroids; consider early biologic therapy; paediatric gastroenterology review
PUCAI ≥65 — severe UC (equivalent to Truelove & Witts severe colitis)
→ Urgent hospital admission; IV corticosteroids; surgical standby; infliximab rescue therapy if steroid-refractory
Interpretation bands for the PUCAI. Apply clinical judgement and local guidance.
References
- Turner D et al. Development, validation, and evaluation of a pediatric ulcerative colitis activity index: a prospective multicenter study. Gastroenterology. 2007;133(2):423–432.
Related
Curated clinical cross-links plus same-class fallbacks.
- Ibuprofen (Paediatric) · NSAID / Analgesic / Antipyretic
- Paracetamol (Paediatric) · Analgesic / Antipyretic — First-Line Pain and Fever in Children
- Morphine (Paediatric) · Opioid Analgesic — Moderate to Severe Pain in Children
- Gentamicin (Paediatric) · Aminoglycoside — Neonatal Sepsis / Gram-Negative Infections in Children
- Vancomycin (Paediatric) · Glycopeptide Antibiotic — MRSA / Severe Gram-Positive Infections in Children
- Iron Supplementation (Paediatric) · Iron Supplement — Iron Deficiency Anaemia in Children
Decision support only — verify against a current formulary, NICE, or your local guideline before clinical use.