The MELD score reliably predicts short- and medium-term outcomes in alcohol-associated liver disease across all disease stages.

MELD score was based on the serum creatinine, total bilirubin, and international normalized ratio in the recipient, but not on hepatocellular carcinoma findings.

In Matthew's case, however, his relatively low MELD score belied the seriousness of his condition. Biliary atresia does not often lead to kidney dysfunction, so the MELD score tends to be lower.