Clinical use: Ranson criteria estimate severity and mortality risk in acute pancreatitis. Complete scoring requires admission values plus 48-hour values.
At Admission (5 Criteria)
Within 48 Hours (6 Criteria)
What Is the Ranson Score?
The Ranson score is a classic clinical tool used to estimate disease severity in acute pancreatitis. It combines laboratory and physiologic findings collected at two time points: on admission and at 48 hours. The total score helps clinicians estimate short-term mortality risk and identify patients who may need higher-acuity care.
Although modern tools such as BISAP, APACHE II, and bedside imaging are often used today, Ranson criteria remain a useful educational framework and can still provide valuable context in practice.
How the Calculator Works
This calculator checks each criterion against the established threshold and assigns one point per criterion met.
Admission Criteria (5 points possible)
- Age above threshold (depends on etiology)
- White blood cell count above threshold
- Serum glucose above threshold
- LDH above threshold
- AST above threshold
48-Hour Criteria (6 points possible)
- Hematocrit decrease > 10%
- BUN rise above threshold (depends on etiology)
- Calcium < 8 mg/dL
- PaO2 < 60 mmHg
- Base deficit above threshold (depends on etiology)
- Fluid sequestration above threshold (depends on etiology)
Score Interpretation
| Total Ranson Score | Typical Severity | Estimated Mortality Risk |
|---|---|---|
| 0–2 | Mild | ~1% |
| 3–4 | Moderate | ~15% |
| 5–6 | Severe | ~40% |
| 7–11 | Very severe | ~50–100% |
Important Clinical Notes
- Ranson score is intended for acute pancreatitis, not chronic pancreatitis flare assessment.
- The full score cannot be finalized until 48-hour data are available.
- Clinical trajectory, imaging, comorbidities, and organ failure status should always be considered alongside any score.
- Institutional protocols and specialist judgment should guide ICU transfer and intervention decisions.
When to Use This Tool
Use this calculator for rapid bedside estimation, chart review, educational exercises, and exam prep. It is especially useful when you want a structured way to discuss pancreatitis prognosis with trainees or to compare severity scoring systems.
Disclaimer
This page is for educational and informational use only and does not replace professional medical judgment. For real patient care decisions, consult current guidelines, local protocols, and qualified clinicians.