Validation of a Score for the Detection of Subjects with High Risk for Severe High-Altitude Illness.

Purpose: A decision tree based on a clinicophysiological score (severe high-altitude illness (SHAI) score) has been developed to detect subjects susceptible to SHAI. We aimed to validate this decision tree, to rationalize the prescription of acetazolamide (ACZ), and to specify the rule for a progressive acclimatization.

Methods: Data were obtained from 641 subjects in 15 European medical centers before and during a sojourn at high altitude.