The Maddrey Score, also known as the Maddrey Discriminant Function (MDF), is a clinical tool developed to help evaluate the severity and potential outcome of acute alcoholic hepatitis. This condition is a serious liver inflammation caused by excessive and prolonged alcohol consumption. The Maddrey Score is widely used in hospitals and medical settings to assist healthcare providers in determining how sick a patient is and what kind of treatment may be needed.
The score is calculated using two important laboratory values:
The Maddrey Score combines these two values into a formula that helps predict a patient's risk of short-term mortality (usually within 30 days). A score above 32 typically indicates severe alcoholic hepatitis and may suggest a higher risk of death. In such cases, doctors may consider additional treatments like corticosteroids or other interventions to improve outcomes.
It's important to note that while the Maddrey Score is a helpful guide, it is not a diagnosis on its own. It should be interpreted by a qualified healthcare provider in combination with other clinical findings, lab results, and the patient’s overall condition. This calculator is designed to make it easier for patients and caregivers to understand the potential seriousness of the disease, but it should not replace medical advice.
This calculator is designed for individuals who have been diagnosed with or are suspected of having acute alcoholic hepatitis. It is most useful for:
However, while this tool can help interpret laboratory values and provide insight into disease severity, it is not a diagnostic device and should not be used to make treatment decisions on your own.
Using the Maddrey Score Calculator is simple and straightforward. Follow the steps below to get your result:
The score will help indicate the severity of your condition. If the result is higher than 32, it may suggest a more serious form of alcoholic hepatitis and might require immediate medical attention.
Note: This calculator does not store your data and is for informational purposes only. Always share your result with a healthcare professional for proper evaluation and care.
To understand the Maddrey Score, it’s helpful to know what the two key lab values — Prothrombin Time (PT) and bilirubin — actually mean and why they matter.
Prothrombin Time is a blood test that measures how long it takes for your blood to clot. The liver produces proteins that are essential for blood clotting, and if the liver is not functioning properly, clotting can take longer than normal.
PT is usually reported in either:
A prolonged PT or lower percentage can indicate that the liver is damaged and not producing enough clotting factors, which is a sign of worsening liver function.
Bilirubin is a yellow pigment that forms when red blood cells break down. The liver normally processes and removes bilirubin from the body. When the liver is damaged, it can’t properly filter out bilirubin, leading to a buildup in the blood.
Elevated bilirubin levels can cause symptoms like:
Bilirubin levels are commonly reported in:
Both PT and bilirubin are critical indicators of liver health. When combined in the Maddrey Score, they help doctors assess the severity of alcoholic hepatitis and guide treatment decisions.
Selecting the correct units for your lab values is important for an accurate Maddrey Score calculation. Lab reports can vary depending on the country or the lab performing the test, so it's essential to match your input with the units shown in your results.
When entering your Prothrombin Time, you'll need to choose between:
Tip: Check your lab report for the PT result. If it says something like "PT = 15.2 s," choose seconds. If it says "PT = 60%," choose percent.
For bilirubin levels, you can select between:
Tip: Look at your lab report to see which unit is used. For example, "Bilirubin = 85 µmol/L" or "Bilirubin = 5.0 mg/dL". Choose the matching unit in the calculator to ensure your result is accurate.
If you're unsure which unit to select, refer to your test report or ask your healthcare provider for clarification. Choosing the correct units ensures the Maddrey Score is calculated correctly and reflects your actual health status.
Once you enter your lab values and click "Calculate," the Maddrey Score Calculator will give you a numerical result. This number helps estimate the severity of acute alcoholic hepatitis and the potential risk of short-term complications.
The score helps doctors decide whether more aggressive treatment is needed and may also help in evaluating the patient's response to therapy over time.
Note: A high score should not cause panic, but it should prompt immediate medical consultation. Early treatment and abstaining from alcohol can significantly improve the outcome.
No, the calculator is not a diagnostic tool. It is a helpful guide that uses your lab values to estimate the severity of acute alcoholic hepatitis. Only a licensed healthcare provider can diagnose and treat medical conditions.
You need two values from your blood tests:
Check your lab report for the units next to the values. If you're still unsure, ask your healthcare provider or the laboratory where the test was done. Using the wrong unit can lead to inaccurate results.
A score of 32 or higher suggests severe alcoholic hepatitis, with a higher risk of complications or death within 30 days. It often prompts doctors to consider hospital treatment and specific medications such as corticosteroids.
While the calculator can be used repeatedly if you have updated lab results, it is not a substitute for regular medical checkups. Always consult your doctor to interpret changes in your condition.
No, this calculator does not store or send your information. It performs calculations directly in your browser for privacy and simplicity.
No, the Maddrey Score is specifically designed for patients with acute alcoholic hepatitis. It is not intended for other types of liver disease such as viral hepatitis, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, or cirrhosis of different causes.
If you have any health concerns, unusual symptoms, or need help interpreting your result, always speak with a medical professional.
The Maddrey Score Calculator is provided for informational and educational purposes only. It is intended to help users better understand how certain lab values may relate to the severity of acute alcoholic hepatitis, but it is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
The results generated by this tool are based solely on the values you enter and may not reflect your overall health or medical condition. Many factors influence liver disease severity and treatment decisions, and only a qualified healthcare provider can evaluate your situation accurately.
You should never ignore or delay seeking medical advice based on your score or any information from this calculator. If you are experiencing symptoms such as jaundice, abdominal swelling, confusion, or vomiting, seek immediate medical attention.
By using this calculator, you agree that the creators and publishers of this tool are not responsible for any decisions or actions taken based on the results. Always consult your doctor or healthcare provider for personalized medical care.