What tests determine the need for a liver transplant?

[Mary4985]

My ammonia level is currently 902, which is alarming.  My liver enzymes and liver function tests are also quite high although my bilirubin is normal.  I stopped drinking several weeks ago.  Is my liver permanently damaged and do you think I will eventually need a liver transplant?  Also, what can I do to lower my ammonia level and how long will it stay high?  Thank you.

[gdwill2u]

# 1  Bilirubin, which measures how effectively the liver excretes bile;
# 2  INR (formally known as the prothrombin time), measures the liver’s ability to make blood clotting factors;
# 3  Creatinine, which measures kidney function. Impaired kidney function is often associated with severe liver disease. AST, ALT and creatinine.  

These three tests make up what is called the meld score.  Your meld score determines how high on the list you are for transplant.

The four MELD levels are:

    * greater than or equal to 25
    * 24-19
    * 18-11
    * less than or equal to 10

I was between 18-21 when I received my new liver.

Good luck
Bob