DETECT calculator for PAH screening
A free tool to estimate the risk of pulmonary arterial hypertension in patients with systemic sclerosis, based on the scientific DETECT algorithm.
Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is a serious complication of systemic sclerosis, but when detected early it can be treated more effectively. The DETECT calculator applies a scientifically validated algorithm that, by combining simple clinical and laboratory tests, helps identify which patients should be further investigated with echocardiography and, if needed, with right heart catheterisation.
The calculator faithfully reproduces the algorithm published in the DETECT study (Coghlan et al., Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases, 2014), the same one adopted in numerous referral centres worldwide. It is designed to be fast, clear and usable during a routine outpatient visit.
How it works: two steps
The algorithm proceeds in two stages. The first uses only non-echocardiographic data; only if the risk is high enough does it move to the second stage, which adds two echocardiographic parameters.
1
Clinical variables
Enter six parameters: FVC/DLCO ratio, telangiectasias, anti-centromere antibody, NT-proBNP, serum urate and right axis deviation on ECG. The calculator returns a score.
2
Echocardiography
If the Step 1 score exceeds the threshold, two echocardiographic parameters are added: right atrium area and tricuspid regurgitation velocity.
3
Recommendation
The calculator indicates whether right heart catheterisation — the test that confirms or rules out PAH — should be performed.
Quick usage guide
- Open the calculator using the button above.
- Fill in the Step 1 fields with the patient’s values. If a value is not available, the calculator automatically applies the algorithm’s rules for missing data.
- Read the Step 1 score. If it exceeds the threshold, Step 2 is unlocked; otherwise, the risk is low and no immediate further testing is needed.
- Fill in the Step 2 fields with the echocardiographic parameters, when available.
- Read the final recommendation on whether to proceed with catheterisation.
The calculator is available in ten languages and requires no installation: it works on computer, tablet and smartphone.
⚠️ Important noticeThis tool is clinical decision support and does not replace clinical judgement. Results should always be interpreted within the overall clinical context of the individual patient by a qualified healthcare professional.