The Cardiovascular
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Composite Pulmonary Embolism Shock (CPES) Score

Severity framework for normotensive pulmonary embolism.

Composite Pulmonary Embolism Shock (CPES) Score
Tachycardia (heart rate >100/min)
Right ventricular dysfunction (imaging)
Elevated troponin
Elevated BNP / NT-proBNP
Central (main/saddle) pulmonary artery thrombus
Concomitant deep vein thrombosis
Result0 points

Higher scores identify normotensive PE at lower risk of clinical deterioration and normotensive shock.

Risk band
lower (of 6)

When to use

  • Grading severity of normotensive (intermediate-risk) acute pulmonary embolism.

Formula

One point each for tachycardia, RV dysfunction, elevated troponin, elevated BNP, central thrombus, and concomitant DVT. Range 0-6.

Pearls and pitfalls

  • An equally weighted severity framework, not a multivariable-fitted model.
  • Intended to flag patients who may benefit from advanced therapy/monitoring.

References

  1. Barnes GD, et al. Composite Pulmonary Embolism Shock Score. Circ Cardiovasc Interv. 2024;17(7):e014088.