Non Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease
Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) refers to the accumulation of fat in the liver in people who do not consume significant amounts of alcohol.
Normally, a small amount of fat is present in the liver, but when fat exceeds 10% of the liver’s weight, it is considered fatty liver disease.
Causes and Risk Factors:
NAFLD is commonly associated with conditions that affect metabolism, such as:
- Obesity
- Diabetes mellitus
- High cholesterol or triglycerides (dyslipidemia)
- Prolonged fasting or malnutrition
Spectrum of NAFLD:
NAFLD includes a range of liver conditions, from simple fat accumulation to severe liver damage:
- Simple Fatty Liver:
In this stage, fat builds up in the liver without inflammation or damage. It is generally harmless and carries low risk of progression.
2. NASH (Non-Alcoholic Steatohepatitis):
This is a more serious form, where fat deposition is accompanied by inflammation and liver cell injury.
People with NASH are at a higher risk of developing cirrhosis and liver failure over time.
3. Cirrhosis:
This represents the end stage of NAFLD, where extensive scarring (fibrosis) occurs, leading to irreversible liver damage.
Diagnosis:
The diagnosis of NAFLD is made through a combination of tests, including:
- Liver Function Tests (LFTs)
- Ultrasound (USG) of the abdomen – showing an enlarged and fatty (bright) liver
- Fasting blood sugar (FBS) and insulin levels
- Thyroid profile and lipid profile
- Liver biopsy – in patients with persistently elevated liver enzymes to confirm inflammation or fibrosis
Treatment:
There is no specific drug that cures NAFLD completely, but it can be effectively managed with lifestyle changes and supportive treatment:
- Gradual weight loss through diet and exercise
- Calorie restriction and avoidance of sugary and high-fat foods
- Regular physical activity
- Medications like Ursodeoxycholic acid and Vitamin E, which have shown benefits in clinical studies
In short, NAFLD is a preventable and reversible condition if detected early. Maintaining a healthy weight, balanced diet, and active lifestyle are key to protecting liver health.