Child–Pugh classification of liver disease*

Parameter

Assign 1 point

Assign 2 points

Assign 3 points

Ascites

Absent

Slight

Moderate

Bilirubin (µ/L)

< 11

11–45

> 45

Albumin (g/L)

> 35

28–35

< 28

Prothrombin time
(seconds over control)
or
INR

< 4


< 1.7

4–6


1.7–2.3

> 6


> 2.3

Encephalopathy

None

Grade 1–2

Grade 3–4

Total score of 5–6 = Grade A (well compensated disease)

Total score of 7–9 = Grade B (disease with significant functional compromise)

Total score of 10–15 = Grade C (decompensated liver disease)

* Adapted from: Sloss A, Kubler P. Prescribing in liver disease. Aust Prescr 2009; 32:32–5.

For more information about prescribing for people with liver disease, refer to the Australian Prescriber article at www.australianprescriber.com/magazine/32/2/32/5.