Maddrey Discriminant Function Calculator

What Is the Maddrey Discriminant Function?

The Maddrey discriminant function (MDF) estimates short-term mortality in alcoholic hepatitis using prothrombin time prolongation and serum bilirubin. It helps identify patients who may benefit from corticosteroid therapy. For broader cirrhosis staging, see the Child-Pugh Calculator.

Maddrey Formula

With prothrombin time (PT) and bilirubin in mg/dL:

$$\text{MDF} = 4.6 \times (\text{PT}_{\text{patient}} - \text{PT}_{\text{control}}) + \text{Bilirubin}_{\text{mg/dL}}$$

Enter the patient PT, laboratory reference (control) PT, and total bilirubin. If bilirubin is in µmol/L, the calculator converts to mg/dL before applying the formula.

Score Interpretation

An MDF of 32 or below suggests lower short-term mortality and less clear steroid benefit. A score above 32 indicates severe alcoholic hepatitis with higher 28-day mortality. In this range, corticosteroid therapy may be considered alongside infection screening, nutrition support, and abstinence counseling.