MAFLD stands for Metabolic Associated Fatty Liver Disease. It is a term used to describe a condition characterized by the accumulation of fat in the liver (hepatic steatosis) in individuals who do not consume excessive alcohol. MAFLD encompasses a spectrum of liver disorders, including non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH).
Here are some key points about MAFLD:
- Definition and Prevalence:
- MAFLD represents a shift in the understanding and classification of fatty liver disease. It was introduced to reflect the metabolic nature of the condition and broaden its scope beyond alcohol-related liver disease.
- The prevalence of MAFLD is increasing worldwide, mainly due to the rising prevalence of obesity, sedentary lifestyles, and unhealthy dietary patterns. It has become a leading cause of chronic liver disease.
- Diagnostic Criteria:
- The diagnosis of MAFLD is based on evidence of hepatic steatosis (fat accumulation in the liver) along with one of the following three criteria: overweight/obesity, presence of type 2 diabetes, or evidence of metabolic dysregulation (such as insulin resistance).
- Other causes of liver fat accumulation (such as significant alcohol consumption, certain medications, viral hepatitis, etc.) should be excluded.
- Progression and Complications:
- MAFLD can progress from simple steatosis (fatty liver) to non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), which involves liver inflammation and may lead to fibrosis, cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) over time.
- The risk of progression varies among individuals, and factors such as genetic predisposition, obesity, insulin resistance, and lifestyle choices (diet, physical activity, etc.) can influence disease progression.
- MAFLD is also associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease and other metabolic disorders, including type 2 diabetes, dyslipidemia, and obesity-related complications.
- Management and Treatment:
- Lifestyle modifications are the primary approach to managing MAFLD. These include weight loss (if overweight), adopting a healthy diet (such as the Mediterranean or low-carbohydrate diet), regular exercise, and avoiding alcohol and unnecessary medications.
- Treatment of underlying metabolic risk factors, such as diabetes and dyslipidemia, is important in managing MAFLD.
- In more advanced cases, pharmacological interventions may be considered to target specific aspects of the disease, although no approved medications specifically target MAFLD/NASH as of my knowledge cutoff in September 2021.
It’s important for individuals diagnosed with MAFLD to work closely with healthcare professionals, including hepatologists or gastroenterologists, to manage the condition effectively. Regular monitoring and lifestyle modifications can help reduce the risk of disease progression and associated complications.
Information sheet about fatty liver – please click here