"The Model for End-Stage Liver Disease (MELD) and Pediatric End-Stage Liver Disease (PELD) are numerical scales that are currently used for liver allocation. These scores are based on a patient’s risk of dying while waiting for a liver transplant, and are based on objective and verifiable medical data" according to the United Network for Organ Sharing.
MELD/PELD scores are based on these lab results:
1. Bilirubin: which measures how well the liver processes bile
2. Creatinine: which measures kidney function
3. INR: which measures liver’s ability to m ake blood clotting factors
4. Sodium level (added to the MELD score policy in November 2004)
PELD scores also include:
5. Albumin: which measures the liver’s ability to maintain nutrition
6. Growth failure
7. Whether the child is less than one year old
Having bloodwork drawn on time will help keep your score current and avoid penalties. You should call the Liver Transplant Office at 410-614-2989 and leave a message containing your name, phone number and the date each time you have your bloodwork completed. After the results are entered into the computer, the liver office can tell you the deadline for your next bloodwork and give you your updated score.
