ADD-RS + D-dimer Calculator

ADD-RS + D-dimer Calculator


ADD-RS ScoreD-dimer (ng/mL)Interpretation / RiskRecommended Action
0<500Very low riskAAS can often be safely ruled out without imaging (ADvISED protocol)
0≥500Low risk but positive D-dimerImaging recommended to exclude AAS
1<500Low-intermediate riskClinical judgment; consider imaging if suspicion persists
1≥500Intermediate riskImaging (CTA) recommended
2–3<500High riskImaging strongly recommended regardless of D-dimer
2–3≥500Very high riskImmediate imaging (CTA) and urgent management

linical Notes / Key Points

  1. ADD-RS 0 + D-dimer <500 ng/mL → Safely rules out acute aortic syndrome (AAS) in early presenters.
  2. ADD-RS 0 but D-dimer ≥500 ng/mL → Even with low ADD-RS, elevated D-dimer warrants imaging.
  3. ADD-RS ≥2 → High pretest probability: imaging is indicated even if D-dimer is normal, because false negatives occur in high-risk patients.
  4. D-dimer limitations:
    • Sensitivity decreases >24 hours from symptom onset.
    • Less reliable in chronic dissection or delayed presentation.
  5. Clinical integration: Always combine ADD-RS + D-dimer with clinical judgment, vital signs, and exam findings.

Example Interpretations

Case 1:

  • ADD-RS = 0, D-dimer = 400 ng/mL → Very low risk → No CTA needed if early presentation and low clinical suspicion.

Case 2:

  • ADD-RS = 1, D-dimer = 700 ng/mL → Intermediate risk → CTA recommended to rule out AAS.

Case 3:

  • ADD-RS = 2, D-dimer = 300 ng/mL → High risk → CTA required despite normal D-dimer.

ADD-RS + D-dimer Calculator

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