MELD / MELD-Na Score Calculator
Use current lab values to estimate MELD and MELD-Na. This tool applies commonly used clinical bounds for transplant allocation-style scoring.
Formula basis: MELD(i) = 3.78×ln(bilirubin) + 11.2×ln(INR) + 9.57×ln(creatinine) + 6.43; MELD-Na adjustment applies sodium bounds 125–137.
What is a MELD score?
The Model for End-Stage Liver Disease (MELD) score is a numeric estimate of disease severity in patients with advanced liver dysfunction. It was originally created to predict outcomes in specific procedures, then became widely used in liver transplant prioritization.
In practical use, a higher MELD score generally indicates a higher short-term risk of mortality. Because lab values can vary over time, MELD is often recalculated periodically to track progression.
What this score meld calculator includes
This page calculates both:
- MELD (classic lab-based score)
- MELD-Na, which adjusts MELD using serum sodium
MELD-Na is often used because sodium abnormalities can add important prognostic information in advanced cirrhosis.
Inputs you need
- Total bilirubin (mg/dL)
- INR
- Serum creatinine (mg/dL)
- Serum sodium (mEq/L)
- Dialysis status in the last 7 days
How the calculator handles lab-value bounds
Real-world scoring systems apply lower and upper limits so extreme values do not distort the formula. This calculator follows common allocation-style conventions:
- Bilirubin, INR, and creatinine are floored at 1.0 before logarithms are applied.
- Creatinine is capped at 4.0 mg/dL; if dialysis criteria are met, creatinine is set to 4.0.
- Sodium is bounded between 125 and 137 for MELD-Na adjustment.
- Final rounded score is constrained to 6–40.
Interpreting results (general ranges)
Interpretation depends on the full clinical picture, but these rough categories are commonly referenced:
- MELD under 10: relatively lower short-term mortality risk
- MELD 10–19: moderate risk zone
- MELD 20–29: substantially increased risk
- MELD 30+: very high near-term risk
These categories are broad and not a substitute for patient-specific evaluation.
Frequently asked questions
Is MELD the same as MELD-Na?
No. MELD-Na starts with MELD and then adjusts based on sodium. In many settings, MELD-Na provides better prognostic discrimination than MELD alone.
Can I use old lab values?
You can, but the score may not reflect current severity. For clinical decisions, use the most recent reliable lab panel and follow institutional guidance.
Why does dialysis change creatinine handling?
Dialysis indicates significant renal impairment and can alter measured creatinine. Setting creatinine to 4.0 in qualified dialysis scenarios standardizes scoring.
Bottom line
A score meld calculator is useful for quick estimation, trending, and educational understanding of liver disease severity. Still, no single number replaces clinical context, examination findings, imaging, etiology, comorbid disease, or specialist assessment.