What is the Lille Score?
The Lille Score is a tool used to predict the 6-month survival rate in patients with alcoholic hepatitis who are undergoing steroid treatment. It helps physicians assess the effectiveness of steroid therapy and determine whether alternative treatments are needed.
Why is the Lille Score Important?
Alcoholic hepatitis is a severe condition that can lead to liver failure and death. The Lille Score helps:
- Evaluate Treatment Response: Determines if steroid therapy is improving liver function.
- Predict Survival: Estimates the likelihood of survival within 6 months.
- Guide Clinical Decisions: Helps doctors decide whether to continue or change treatment strategies.
How to Use the Lille Score Calculator?
The calculator requires the following inputs:
- Age: The patient's age in years.
- Prothrombin Time (PT): A measure of blood clotting time, in seconds.
- Creatinine: A measure of kidney function, in mg/dL.
- Albumin: A protein produced by the liver, in g/L.
- Bilirubin (Day 0): A measure of liver function at the start of treatment, in μmol/L.
- Bilirubin (Day 7): A measure of liver function after 7 days of steroid treatment, in μmol/L.
Once all inputs are entered, click "Calculate Lille Score" to get the results.
Interpreting the Results
The Lille Score ranges from 0 to 1:
- Score < 0.45: Indicates a good response to steroid therapy and a higher likelihood of survival.
- Score ≥ 0.45: Suggests a poor response to steroids, and alternative treatments may be needed.
Limitations of the Lille Score
While the Lille Score is a useful tool, it has some limitations:
- Specific to Steroid Treatment: It only applies to patients undergoing steroid therapy for alcoholic hepatitis.
- Does Not Replace Clinical Judgment: The score should be used alongside other clinical assessments.
- Not a Diagnostic Tool: It predicts survival but does not diagnose the condition.
Disclaimer
This calculator provides estimates for educational purposes. It should not replace medical advice or diagnosis. Always consult healthcare professionals for a comprehensive assessment of your health.