Table 6.
Suggested Protocol for Initial Evaluation and Follow-Up on Waiting List.
| Investigation | At assessment | On waiting list |
|---|---|---|
| Clinical assessment | Yes | MELD >30: Weekly MELD 20–30: Monthly MELD <20: Three monthly |
| Haematology, biochemistry, microbiology | Yes | MELD >30: Weekly MELD 20–30: Monthly MELD <20: Three monthly |
| Blood grouping | Yes | No |
| Infection screening | Yes | If indicated |
| Metabolic profile | Yes | If indicated |
| ABG as screening for HPS | Yes | If indicated |
| Cardiac assessment | Yes | At least 6 monthly or more frequent if indicated |
| Tumour markers | Yes | At least 6 monthly or more frequent if indicated |
| Cross-sectional imaging (Triphasic CT/MRI) | Yes | 3 monthly for patients with HCC 6 monthly for others |
| Thrombophilia assessment | Yes, if indicated | No |
| Tests for etiological diagnosis | Yes | No |
| Surveillance endoscopy | Yes | At least 6 monthly or more frequent if indicated |
| Gynaecology assessment for women | Yes | If indicated |
| Nutritional and functional assessment | Yes | At least 6 monthly or more frequent if indicated |
| Psychiatry assessment | Yes | If indicated |
CT, computed tomography; HCC, hepatocellular carcinoma; HPS, hepatopulmonary syndrome; MELD, Model for End-Stage Liver Disease; MRI, magnetic resonance imaging; ABG, Arterial blood gas.