Calculator For Alcoholic Hepatitis

Maddrey's Discriminant Function:

\[ MDF = 4.6 \times (PT - Control PT) + Bilirubin (mg/dL) \]

Maddrey's Discriminant Function (MDF):

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1. What is Maddrey's Discriminant Function?

Maddrey's Discriminant Function (MDF) is a prognostic scoring system used to assess the severity and predict outcomes in patients with alcoholic hepatitis. It helps identify patients who may benefit from corticosteroid therapy.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses Maddrey's Discriminant Function formula:

\[ MDF = 4.6 \times (PT - Control PT) + Bilirubin (mg/dL) \]

Where:

\( PT \) — Patient's prothrombin time (seconds)
\( Control PT \) — Laboratory control prothrombin time (seconds)
\( Bilirubin \) — Total bilirubin level (mg/dL)

Explanation: The function combines coagulation parameters (PT) with liver function markers (bilirubin) to quantify disease severity in alcoholic hepatitis.

3. Importance of MDF Calculation

Details: MDF score ≥32 indicates severe alcoholic hepatitis with high short-term mortality risk and is often used as a criterion for initiating corticosteroid treatment. Lower scores suggest milder disease with better prognosis.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter patient PT and control PT in seconds, bilirubin in mg/dL. Ensure all values are from the same laboratory and collected at the same time for accurate calculation.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What does MDF score indicate?
A: MDF ≥32 suggests severe alcoholic hepatitis with high mortality risk; scores <32 indicate milder disease with better prognosis.

Q2: When should MDF be calculated?
A: MDF should be calculated at diagnosis of alcoholic hepatitis and may be repeated during treatment to monitor response.

Q3: What are the limitations of MDF?
A: MDF doesn't account for all prognostic factors and should be used alongside clinical assessment and other scoring systems like MELD.

Q4: How is MDF used in treatment decisions?
A: MDF ≥32 often indicates consideration of corticosteroid therapy, while lower scores may be managed with supportive care and abstinence.

Q5: Can MDF predict long-term outcomes?
A: MDF primarily predicts short-term (30-day) mortality risk. Long-term prognosis depends on abstinence, nutritional status, and liver function recovery.