ABCD² Score Calculator (Stroke Risk After TIA)
The ABCD² score estimates the short-term risk of stroke after a transient ischaemic attack (TIA) from five factors — Age, Blood pressure, Clinical features, Duration of symptoms, and Diabetes — for a total of 0 to 7, used to triage how urgently a TIA is assessed.
Quick answer
The ABCD² score adds points for Age 60 or over (1), Blood pressure 140/90 or higher (1), Clinical features (unilateral weakness 2, speech disturbance without weakness 1), Duration (60 minutes or more 2, 10–59 minutes 1) and Diabetes (1), for a total of 0–7. The 2-day stroke risk is about 1.0% for 0–3, 4.1% for 4–5, and 8.1% for 6–7.
ABCD² factors
Low risk (0–3) · 2-day stroke risk ≈1.0%
The ABCD² score is 0/7: low risk (0–3), with an estimated 2-day stroke risk of about ≈1.0% in the derivation study.
Many guidelines now recommend urgent specialist assessment of all suspected TIAs regardless of ABCD² score, because the score alone does not capture carotid stenosis or atrial fibrillation. It is a risk estimate, not a stand-alone triage rule. A clinician interprets it.
How to use the ABCD² calculator
- 1Enter age, blood pressure and diabetes. Tick age 60 or over, blood pressure 140/90 mmHg or higher at first assessment, and diabetes.
- 2Select clinical features and duration. Choose the clinical feature (unilateral weakness, speech disturbance without weakness, or other) and the duration of symptoms (60 minutes or more, 10–59 minutes, or under 10 minutes).
- 3Read the score and risk. The tool totals the points (0–7) and shows the low / moderate / high band with its 2-day stroke risk, to guide how urgently the TIA is assessed.
Medical disclaimer: This is general health information, not medical advice. It does not diagnose or treat any condition, and the results are estimates based on public reference formulas. Always consult a qualified doctor about your individual health. If you think you may have a medical emergency, contact your local emergency services immediately.
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Book a consultationFrequently asked questions
What does the ABCD² score predict?⌄
It estimates the short-term risk of stroke after a transient ischaemic attack. In the derivation study the 2-day risk was about 1.0% for a score of 0–3, 4.1% for 4–5, and 8.1% for 6–7, which helps decide how urgently to assess and treat the patient.
Does a low ABCD² score mean a TIA can wait?⌄
No. Many guidelines (for example NICE) now recommend urgent specialist assessment of all suspected TIAs regardless of ABCD² score, because the score alone does not reliably identify who has carotid stenosis or atrial fibrillation. It is a risk estimate, not a triage rule on its own.
Why does symptom duration affect the score?⌄
Longer-lasting symptoms (especially 60 minutes or more) were associated with a higher subsequent stroke risk in the derivation data, so duration is weighted up to 2 points.
Is my data stored?⌄
No. The calculator runs entirely in your browser; nothing you enter is sent to a server.
Sources & validation
This calculator reproduces the published ABCD² score, validated for 2-day (and short-term) stroke risk after a transient ischaemic attack.
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