PCDAI
Pronunciation: P-C-D-A-I
Also written as: PCDAI — Pediatric Crohn's Disease Activity Index
Modified scoring system specifically designed to assess Crohn's disease activity in pediatric patients.
Full Definition
The Pediatric Crohn's Disease Activity Index (PCDAI) is an age-appropriate modification of the adult CDAI, specifically designed for children and adolescents with Crohn's disease. The PCDAI incorporates factors particularly relevant to pediatric patients, including growth parameters, which are often affected in pediatric inflammatory bowel disease. The index includes variables such as abdominal pain, number of liquid stools per day, patient functioning and well-being, weight loss or growth deceleration, abdominal tenderness, perirectal disease, and extraintestinal manifestations. Scores range from 0 to 100, with scores less than 10 indicating remission and scores above 30 indicating moderate to severe disease activity.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish from adult CDAI; always specify 'pediatric' when spelling out.
In Context
- "The PCDAI score improved from 45 to 8 after six months of exclusive enteral nutrition." — Pediatric IBD clinic note
- "PCDAI assessment revealed moderate disease activity despite clinical improvement." — Research study documentation