MELD Calculator

A MELD (Model for End-Stage Liver Disease) calculator is a tool that helps to estimate the severity of liver disease and predict the likelihood of death in patients with liver failure. The MELD score is used to prioritize the allocation of liver transplants and to guide the management of patients with end-stage liver disease. The MELD calculator is based on a formula that takes into account three laboratory values:

• Serum creatinine: A measure of kidney function
• Bilirubin: A measure of liver function
• International normalized ratio (INR): A measure of blood clotting

The resulting MELD score is a numeric value that ranges from 6 to 40, with higher scores indicating a greater severity of liver disease and a higher risk of death. It's important to note that the MELD calculator is only one tool that is used to assess the severity of liver disease and guide treatment decisions. Other factors, such as the presence of other medical conditions and the overall health of the patient, should also be considered when managing patients with end-stage liver disease.

MELD Calculator

Bilrubin (Total)

+1: <2 mg/dL (<34.2 μmol/L)+2: 2-3 mg/dL (34.2-51.3 μmol/L)+3: >3 mg/dL(>51.3 μmol/L)

Albumin

+1: >3.5 g/dL (>35 g/L)+2: 2.8-3.5 g/dL (28-35 g/L)+3: <2.8 g/dL (<28 g/L)

INR

+1: <1.7+2: 1.7-2.2+3: >2.2

Ascites

+1: Absent+2: Slight+3: Moderate

Encephalopathy

+1: No Encephalopathy+2: Grade 1-2+3: Grade 3-4

Calculate

Value

Learn more on the BackTable VI Podcast

BackTable is a knowledge resource for physicians by physicians. Get practical advice on the MELD Calculator and how to build your practice by listening to the BackTable VI Podcast, reading exclusing BackTable Articles, and following the work of our Contributors.

Ep 473 Portal Hypertension Treatment Strategies: IR & Hepatology Perspectives with Dr. Thomas Leventhal and Dr. Siobhan Flanagan

00:00 / 01:04

Disclaimer: The Materials available on BackTable.com are for informational and educational purposes only and are not a substitute for the professional judgment of a healthcare professional in diagnosing and treating patients. The opinions expressed by participants of the BackTable Podcast belong solely to the participants, and do not necessarily reflect the views of BackTable.