Learning About a MELD Score (Model for End-Stage Liver Disease)
What is it?
A MELD score (Model for End-Stage Liver Disease) is a way to measure severe liver disease. It gives you a score from 6 to 40. The higher the score, the more severe the disease. Your doctor can use it to find out how severe your liver disease is.
Why is it done?
A MELD score is used to place people on the provincial waiting list for a liver transplant. People with higher MELD scores are usually placed higher on the list. They are more likely to need a new liver sooner than people with lower MELD scores. The scores are updated on a regular basis. Your score may go up or down as you wait for a transplant. A score can change based on the severity of the liver disease.
A MELD score can help you and your doctor decide on your treatment if you have severe liver disease.
How is it done?
You will have blood tests done to check how well your liver and kidneys are working. The results of the blood tests are used to figure out your MELD score. Some of the blood tests that are considered for your MELD score are:
- Creatinine - how well your kidneys are working
- INR – how well your body can stop bleeding or bruising (some blood clotting factors are produced by your liver)
- Bilirubin – how well your liver gets rid of bile from your body (bile is produced by your liver and helps your body digest fat and fatty acids)
- Sodium – how well your body balances your electrolytes (your liver has an important role in how your body balance water and electrolytes in your body)
Your kidneys and liver work together to help filter your blood. For your MELD score your doctor will also consider whether you’re on dialysis and how often you need it.
Talk to your doctor or healthcare provider if you have questions about your MELD score.
Adaptation Date: 12/13/2023
Adapted By: Alberta Health Services
Adaptation Reviewed By: Alberta Health Services
