A scoring system for liver function based on a numerical scale. The scale ranges from 6 (less ill) to 40 (gravely ill). It is used for liver transplant candidates’ age 12 years and older. MELD gives an individual score based on how urgently a liver transplant is needed within the next three months. The number is calculated using the most recent laboratory tests for bilirubin, INR (formerly known as the prothrombin time) and serum creatinine.

SOURCE

UNOS. Talking about transplantation. Questions and answers for transplant candidates about MELD and PELD. Retrieved November 8, 2011 from http://www.unos.org/docs/MELD_PELD.pdf.

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