Question 1

What does the Child-Pugh score classify?

Accepted Answer

The Child-Pugh score classifies the severity of chronic liver disease and cirrhosis. It uses five clinical measures: bilirubin, albumin, INR (or prothrombin time), ascites, and hepatic encephalopathy. Each factor scores 1–3 points, with total scores of 5–15.

Question 2

What are Child-Pugh classes A, B, and C?

Accepted Answer

Class A (5–6 points): well-compensated cirrhosis, 1-year survival ~100%. Class B (7–9 points): significant functional compromise, 1-year survival ~80%. Class C (10–15 points): decompensated cirrhosis, 1-year survival ~45%.

Question 3

How does Child-Pugh compare to MELD?

Accepted Answer

Child-Pugh uses subjective criteria (ascites, encephalopathy grades) and categorical scoring, while MELD uses only objective lab values and a continuous scale. MELD is preferred for transplant allocation due to its objectivity. Child-Pugh remains useful for surgical risk assessment and clinical classification.

Score	Class	1-Year Survival
5 – 6	A (Well-compensated)	~100%
7 – 9	B (Significant compromise)	~80%
10 – 15	C (Decompensated)	~45%

Child-Pugh Score

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