Fatty Liver Disease

Fatty Liver Disease, clinically known as hepatic steatosis, occurs when excess fat accumulates in liver cells. It is typically subclassified into two main types: Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD), where alcohol is not the contributory factor, and Alcoholic Liver Disease (ALD), resulting from excessive alcohol consumption. NAFLD may range from simple steatosis, which is generally benign, to Non-alcoholic Steatohepatitis (NASH), where fat accumulation is associated with inflammation and damage to liver cells, potentially leading to fibrosis and cirrhosis. Risk factors for NAFLD include obesity, diabetes, and metabolic syndrome.

From a pathophysiological standpoint, Fatty Liver Disease disrupts the normal processing and storage of fats, and the condition can become a silent and progressive assailant to liver health. The liver's role in metabolizing lipids is compromised, leading to an imbalance between the uptake, synthesis, export, and breakdown of fats. Without intervention, the disease can advance, causing liver scarring and impairing liver function. Diagnosing the disease often involves blood tests, imaging studies, and sometimes liver biopsy. Management focuses on addressing the underlying causes, improving lifestyle factors such as diet and exercise, and in certain cases, medication or surgical options may be considered.