The commonest liver disorder in Western industrialised countries. A range of conditions caused by a build up of fat in hepatocytes. Usually seen in people who are overweight or obese
Most people will only ever develop the first stage - but subsequent stages are serious. There are 4 main stages:
- Simple fatty liver (steatosis) usually asymptomatic
- Non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) - a more serious form of NAFLD where the liver has become inflamed
- Fibrosis - where persistent inflammation causes scar tissue around the liver and nearby blood vessels. Liver can still function normally
- Liver Cirrhosis - the most severe stage occurring after years. Permanent damage and can lead to Liver failure
Causes/Factors
- Obesity
- Type 2 diabetes
- Hyperthyroidism
- High blood pressure
- Hypercholesterolemia
- Smoking
Symptoms
- Usually no symptoms in early stages
NASH or fibrosis:
- Dull aching pain in right hypochondriac region/right upper quadrant
- Extreme tiredness
- Unexplained weight loss
- Weakness
Diagnostic Tests
- Need to rule out other causes of liver disease
- LFT ( ALT)
- Ultrasound
- Biopsy
Management
- Control risk factors
- Avoid alcohol consumption
- Address cardiovascular risk of death