WFNS Grade Calculator

WFNS Grade Calculator for Neurology. Grades describe clinical severity and must be considered with the full evaluation: https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/STR.0000000000000436

For shared guidance on choosing a tool and documenting results, read the clinical calculator workflow.

How this calculator works

Original WFNS uses GCS and major motor deficit, without adding points: GCS 15/no deficit I; 13-14/no deficit II; 13-14/deficit III; 7-12 IV; 3-6 V. Original report: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/3131498/ . Category definitions: https://cde.nlm.nih.gov/deView?tinyId=1F_rkZ588GA

When to use this calculator

Report clinical grade in aneurysmal SAH after an interpretable examination. Specify original WFNS, since modified WFNS uses different distinctions.

Inputs used

  • Assessable aneurysmal SAH context
  • GCS integer 3-15
  • Major motor deficit: present, absent or unassessable

Clinical interpretation

Grades describe clinical severity and must be considered with the full evaluation: https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/STR.0000000000000436

Worked example

GCS 14 with a major motor deficit is grade III. GCS 12 is grade IV whether the deficit is present or absent; 12 + 1 is not the calculation.

Limitations and safety notes

GCS 15 with a major motor deficit has no specified original-table category; the interface returns unclassified rather than inventing a grade. Sedation and resuscitation timing matter. Grade alone cannot establish prognosis or treatment futility.

Frequently asked questions

Why can GCS 15 return unclassified?

The original table does not specify GCS 15 with a major motor deficit. Confirm the examination and document an explicit grading convention.

References

  • WFNS committee report, 1988: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/3131498/
  • NIH/NINDS common data element; original WFNS category definitions: https://cde.nlm.nih.gov/deView?tinyId=1F_rkZ588GA
  • AHA/ASA aneurysmal SAH guideline, 2023: https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/STR.0000000000000436

Editorial review and citation methodology

Maintained by the Quick Medical Calculator Editorial Team. Content record date: September 9, 2026. A content date is not evidence of independent clinical review. Individual clinical sign-off is not recorded on this page.

  • Prefer original validation studies for scoring systems and prediction tools.
  • Use current specialty society guidance, transplant allocation policy, public health guidance, or regulator resources when they govern clinical use.
  • Include limitations and safety notes when a calculator is population-specific, context-dependent, or unsuitable as a standalone decision tool.

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