Fatty liver disease, or hepatic steatosis, is a buildup of fat in the liver. This makes it harder for the liver to work. It is also known by other names: NAFLD (Non-alcoholoic fatty liver disease) and NASH (Non-alcoholic steatohepatitis). Some forms of fatty liver disease can lead to cirrhosis (scarring of the liver), and increase risk for developing liver cancer. While excess alcohol consumption is a major risk factor, most people who develop fatty liver disease have excess body weight.

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Symptoms

Most patients with fatty liver disease manifest no symptoms, and are unaware that they have it. Progression to cirrhosis may result in: tiredness, swollen abdomen, enlargement of blood vessels underneath the skin, jaundice (yellowish tint of skin and eyes). Associated medical conditions include high blood fat levels, either triglycerides or LDL (“bad”) cholesterol, diabetes or prediabetes, and high blood pressure.

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The following tests are used to diagnose fatty liver disease and to evaluate for possible complications it may cause:

• Clinical examination
• Blood test: A blood test can detect high levels of liver enzymes, which can indicate a problem with your liver.
• Ultrasound: An ultrasound scan uses high frequency sound waves to create images of the inside of the body. It is often used to evaluate the structural integrity of the liver and can be used to detect signs of liver damage.
• CT Scan: A computerized tomography (CT) scan combines a series of X-ray images taken from different angles around the body and uses computer processing to create cross-sectional images (slices) of the tissues of interest. These images can be used to evaluate liver health and to identify any abnormalities.
• FibroScan: A FibroScan is a medical instrument that uses ultrasound waves to diagnose liver disease. FibroScan is the newest technology that doesn’t involve a needle, the risk of complications or pain. The results are immediate and show the evolution of the health of your liver.

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Treatment

Although there are currently no medications for fatty liver disease, research to find a cure is underway. Meanwhile mainstay treatment options include: limiting alcohol consumption, lifestyle changes, weight reduction.

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