GI ToolsGastroenterology and hepatology

Maddrey discriminant function

The Maddrey discriminant function identifies severe alcohol-related hepatitis. A score of 32 or more carries a high short-term mortality and is the usual threshold for considering prednisolone.

Results

The laboratory reference value, often 12 to 13 seconds.

Enter the values above.

How it is worked out

DF = 4.6 × (prothrombin time − control prothrombin time) + bilirubin in mg/dL (µmol/L ÷ 17.1).

References

Maddrey WC, Boitnott JK, Bedine MS, et al. Corticosteroid therapy of alcoholic hepatitis. Gastroenterology. 1978;75(2):193-199.

Carithers RL Jr, Herlong HF, Diehl AM, et al. Methylprednisolone therapy in patients with severe alcoholic hepatitis. Ann Intern Med. 1989;110(9):685-690.