The value of MELD score for evaluation of plasma exchange in patients with liver failure

Objective To study the clinical significance of end-stage liver disease (MELD) scores for evaluation of the therapeutic effect of plasma exchange (PE) on acute liver failure.Methods A total of 115 patients with liver failure were divided into treatment group with ALSS (n = 62) and control group without ALSS (n = 53) .The MELD score were calculated, and the death rate and survival time were observed for three months.Both groups were graded with Model End stage Liver.The efficacy of plasma exchange was evaluated by comparing the MELD scores and survival rate of the treatment group with the control group.Results There was a decrease in MELD score but there was no significant difference between PE group and control group after 1 month of therapy.Compared to the control group, there was no significant decrease of death rate in the treatment group.The survival time was significantly longer in PE group (P < 0.05) .Conclusion Compared to control group, plasma exchange did not decrease the death rate, but it can prolong the survival period in patients with liver failure.These results suggest the importance of potential temporary liver support until recovery or liver transplantation.