MELD Score (2016)

The MELD (Model for End-stage Liver Disease) score was originally developed to estimate survival of patients with chronic liver disease who were electively scheduled to receive a transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) [1]. Meanwhile, the modified MELD score (used here) is used to predict 3-month mortality and prioritize liver transplantation. The MELD score is only suitable for patients ≥ 12 years of age.

Bilirubin

Creatinine

Sodium

INR

Dialysis

Dialysis at least twice in the past week or at least 24 hours of continuous veno-venous hemodialysis?

MELD points

3-month mortality:

Interpretation

MELD Score	≤ 9	10-19	20-29	30-39	40
3-month mortality [3]	1.9 %	6.0 %	19.6 %	52.6 %	71.3 %

References

Kamath PS, Wiesner RH, Malinchoc M et al. A model to predict survival in patients with end-stage liver disease. Hepatology 2001; 33: 464-470
Organ Procurement and Transplantation Network. Organ Procurement and Transplantation Network Policies. OPTN Policies 2019:
Wiesner R, Edwards E, Freeman R et al. Model for end-stage liver disease (MELD) and allocation of donor livers. Gastroenterology 2003; 124: 91-96