sPCDAI — Short Pediatric Crohn’s Disease Activity Index
This calculator implements the short pediatric Crohn’s disease activity index (sPCDAI) based on clinical features only.
Clinical disclaimer
How sPCDAI works
Six clinical domains are scored and summed. Activity bands: ≤15 inactive, 16–29 mild, ≥30 moderate–severe. Do not impute missing values. This version omits labs and growth parameters (clinical-only). Use trends over time to gauge response.
Interpretation and trending
- ≤15 suggests inactive disease; 16–29 mild; ≥30 moderate–severe. Confirm with growth, labs, and stool markers when available.
- Trend scores across visits; a rising score may reflect adherence issues, infections, or loss of response.
- Correlate with weight/height velocity; flag growth deceleration even if sPCDAI is low.
When to escalate or investigate
- Consider labs (CRP/ESR, albumin) and stool calprotectin when scores rise or symptoms change.
- Persistent moderate–severe scores warrant GI review for imaging/endoscopy and therapy optimization.
- Check perirectal disease and extraintestinal manifestations (joints, skin, eyes, hepatobiliary); manage or refer promptly.
Monitoring and supportive care
- Track anthropometrics at every visit; ensure adequate nutrition and micronutrient monitoring.
- Assess medication adherence, immunization status, and infection prophylaxis as applicable (e.g., biologics).
- Coordinate psychosocial support; screen for fatigue, pain, and school impact.
Related tools
- PUCAI for ulcerative colitis activity scoring.
- Pediatric Vital Signs to interpret vitals during visits.
- Pediatric eGFR when dosing renally cleared medications.
References
FAQs
PCDAI includes labs and growth parameters; sPCDAI is a clinical-only variant for faster encounters. This tool uses sPCDAI with clinical domains only.
Common bands: ≤15 inactive, 16–29 mild, ≥30 moderate–severe. Track trends over time; a rising score should prompt reassessment of adherence, growth, labs, and consider therapy adjustment.
No. Pair with growth, labs (CRP/ESR, albumin), stool calprotectin, imaging/endoscopy when indicated, and clinician judgment per your IBD pathway.
During flares or induction, reassess frequently (e.g., every visit, monthly) and trend. In stable patients, use it alongside routine monitoring intervals determined by your IBD team.