Ranson Criteria for Acute Pancreatitis Calculator

Ranson criteria for predicting mortality in acute pancreatitis (0–11).

For educational and clinical reference. Not a substitute for medical judgment. See the medical disclaimer.

Admission: Age > 55 years

Admission: WBC > 16,000/µL

Admission: Glucose > 200 mg/dL

Admission: AST > 250 U/L

Admission: LDH > 350 U/L

48 h: Hematocrit fall > 10%

48 h: BUN rise > 5 mg/dL

48 h: Calcium < 8 mg/dL

48 h: PaO₂ < 60 mmHg

48 h: Base deficit > 4 mEq/L

48 h: Fluid sequestration > 6 L

Score

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Interpretation

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References

Ranson JH, Rifkind KM, Roses DF, et al. Prognostic signs and the role of operative management in acute pancreatitis. Surg Gynecol Obstet. 1974;139(1):69-81.

How to use

Select the admission criteria, then the 48-hour criteria once available.
The total Ranson score (0–11) and estimated mortality update instantly.
A score ≥ 3 indicates severe pancreatitis — escalate monitoring.

Frequently asked questions

What are the Ranson criteria?

Eleven prognostic criteria for acute (non-gallstone) pancreatitis — five at admission and six at 48 hours — that estimate mortality risk.

When is the Ranson score complete?

It can only be fully calculated at 48 hours, since six of the criteria require 48-hour data. This is a recognised limitation versus BISAP/APACHE-II.

What Ranson score is severe?

A score ≥ 3 predicts severe pancreatitis; mortality rises sharply above 5 criteria.

Are the gallstone criteria different?

Yes — the original gallstone-pancreatitis cut-offs differ slightly (e.g., WBC > 18,000, glucose > 220). This calculator uses the classic non-gallstone criteria.

Last updated September 7, 2026