The Pediatric Appendicitis Score (PAS) provides a straightforward method to assess the likelihood of appendicitis in children by evaluating specific clinical signs and symptoms. This scoring system is based on user responses to a series of questions related to their symptoms. Each symptom, if present, contributes a specific number of points to the overall score.

The symptoms assessed and their corresponding scores are as follows:

- Cough, percussion, or hopping tenderness in the right lower quadrant: 2 points
- Tenderness in right lower quadrant: 2 points
- Anorexia: 1 point
- Fever of 38.0ºC (100.4ºF) or higher: 1 point
- Nausea or vomiting: 1 point
- White blood cell count greater than 10,000/mm³: 1 point
- Neutrophilia with an absolute neutrophil count greater than 7,500: 1 point
- Migration of pain to the right lower quadrant: 1 point

To calculate the PAS, each boolean input reflecting the presence of these symptoms is evaluated. The response indicating the presence of a symptom adds its assigned score to the total.

Interpreting the total score offers a clear understanding of the risk level for appendicitis:

- A total score of 3 or less suggests a low risk of appendicitis.
- A score ranging from 4 to 6 indicates an intermediate risk.
- A score of 7 or more signifies a high risk of appendicitis.

This scoring system allows for quick assessment and can aid in clinical decision-making regarding the need for further diagnostic evaluation or intervention.

The Pediatric Appendicitis Score (PAS) is a clinical calculator used in the pediatric population to assess the likelihood of appendicitis. It is specifically designed for children and adolescents, typically between the ages of 3 and 18 years. The PAS is used to stratify the risk of appendicitis, helping clinicians decide whether further diagnostic testing, observation, or surgical consultation is needed. It includes variables such as anorexia, nausea/vomiting, pain migration, tenderness over the right lower quadrant, rebound pain, elevated temperature, leukocytosis, and neutrophilia. The PAS is not applicable to patients outside the pediatric age range or those with pre-existing abdominal conditions that could confound the diagnosis of appendicitis.