MELD Score Calculator
Calculate the Model for End-Stage Liver Disease (MELD) and MELD-Na scores. Used to assess liver disease severity and prioritize patients for liver transplantation.
Normal range: 0.9-1.1
For MELD-Na calculation (bounded 125-137)
About MELD Score
The MELD score predicts 3-month mortality in patients with end-stage liver disease. Originally developed for TIPS procedure risk, it's now used by UNOS/OPTN to prioritize liver transplant allocation. MELD-Na (incorporating sodium) replaced the original MELD in 2016.
Score Interpretation
Formula
10 × (0.957×ln(Cr) + 0.378×ln(Bili) + 1.120×ln(INR) + 0.643)MELD + 1.32×(137-Na) - 0.033×MELD×(137-Na)Frequently Asked Questions
MELD-Na is the current standard used by OPTN for liver transplant allocation since January 2016. It better predicts mortality by including serum sodium. For transplant listing purposes, always use MELD-Na. The original MELD may still be referenced in some clinical contexts.
Certain conditions receive standardized exception points because MELD underestimates their mortality: hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) within Milan criteria, hepatopulmonary syndrome, portopulmonary hypertension, familial amyloid polyneuropathy, and others. These ensure fair access to transplantation.
For transplant listing: MELD ≥25 requires updates every 7 days, 19-24 every 14 days, 11-18 every 30 days, ≤10 every 90 days. Clinically, recalculate when there's a significant change in condition or at regular follow-up intervals (every 1-3 months depending on severity).
MELD was validated for cirrhosis from various etiologies but may underestimate severity in some conditions: primary sclerosing cholangitis with recurrent cholangitis, hepatopulmonary syndrome, and certain metabolic diseases. Exception points systems address some of these limitations.
Pediatric patients (under 12) use the PELD (Pediatric End-Stage Liver Disease) score, which includes albumin, bilirubin, INR, growth failure, and age. Adolescents 12-18 may use either PELD or MELD depending on the situation. Consult pediatric transplant guidelines.
Important Notes
- Lab timing: Use most recent labs within 48 hours
- Creatinine cap: Maximum 4.0 mg/dL (or if on dialysis 2+ times/week)
- Minimum values: Cr, Bili, INR set to 1.0 if lower
- Sodium bounds: Capped between 125-137 mEq/L for MELD-Na
Medical Disclaimer: This calculator provides estimates for educational purposes. Transplant listing decisions require comprehensive evaluation by a transplant team. Always consult current OPTN/UNOS policies and institutional guidelines.