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PEDIS score for diabetic foot ulcers
Multi-axis IWGDF classification of a diabetic foot ulcer by perfusion, extent, depth, infection, and sensation.
PEDIS score for diabetic foot ulcers
Perfusion
Extent/size of the ulcer after debridement
cm²
Depth/tissue loss
Infection
Corresponds to the IDSA/IWGDF diabetic foot infection severity classes (uninfected/mild/moderate/severe).
Sensation
ResultP1 E(not recorded) D1 I1 S1
No high-risk features on this axis-by-axis assessment.
- Perfusion
- Grade 1
- Extent/size
- not recorded
- Depth/tissue loss
- Grade 1
- Infection
- Grade 1
- Sensation
- Grade 1
When to use
- Describing and staging a diabetic foot ulcer along independent, clinically relevant axes for research classification, referral, or handover.
- The infection grade in particular maps onto the IDSA severity classes and helps guide antibiotic choice and need for hospitalisation.
Formula
Five independent axes, not summed to a single score: Perfusion (grade 1-3), Extent/size (measured wound area in cm²), Depth/tissue loss (grade 1-3), Infection (grade 1-4), and Sensation/loss of protective sensation (grade 1-2).
Pearls and pitfalls
- Developed by the International Working Group on the Diabetic Foot (IWGDF) explicitly for research classification, not as a single summary score.
- Infection grading should follow a systematic examination for the local and systemic signs defining each grade, not gestalt.