Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is also sometimes referred to as metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD). This term describes a condition in which fat accumulates in the liver. It is important to note that NAFLD is not associated with heavy alcohol use. Alcohol-associated liver disease is a different condition in which heavy alcohol use leads to fat accumulation in the liver.

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NAFLD can be divided into two types:

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Nonalcoholic fatty liver (NAFL)/metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver (MASL). Someone with NAFL has fat in the liver but minimal inflammation and liver damage, and it usually does not advance to cause liver complications or damage. However, it can lead to enlarged liver which can cause pain.

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Nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH)/metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH). This type of NAFLD causes liver inflammation and damage, leading to fibrosis (scarring). It can also lead to cirrhosis, which is permanent scarring and damage, which is linked to liver cancer.

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As noted, individuals with NAFLD can experience serious liver complications like cirrhosis, liver cancer, liver failure, and liver transplant. It can also increase someone’s risk for cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, and metabolic syndrome.