Hepatic steatosis, also known as fatty liver disease, is a condition that occurs when excess fat accumulates in the liver. The liver is an essential organ that performs many functions, such as detoxifying the blood, producing bile, and metabolising nutrients. However, when too much fat is stored in the liver cells, it can interfere with these functions and cause inflammation, scarring, and liver damage.
Types of Hepatic Steatosis
There are two main types of hepatic steatosis: alcohol-related and non-alcohol-related. Alcohol-related hepatic steatosis is caused by excessive alcohol consumption, which damages the liver cells and impairs their ability to process fat. Non-alcohol-related hepatic steatosis, also known as metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), is associated with cardiometabolic risk factors, such as obesity, diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol. These factors can cause insulin resistance, which prevents the liver from using glucose as fuel and leads to fat accumulation.
Symptoms of Hepatic Steatosis
Hepatic steatosis may not cause any symptoms in the early stages, but as the condition progresses, it can cause signs such as fatigue, abdominal pain, nausea, weight loss, and jaundice. If left untreated, hepatic steatosis can lead to serious complications, such as cirrhosis, liver failure, and liver cancer.
Diagnosis of Hepatic Steatosis
The diagnosis of hepatic steatosis is based on medical history, physical examination, blood tests, imaging studies, and liver biopsy. Blood tests can show abnormal levels of liver enzymes, glucose, and lipids. Imaging studies, such as ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI, can reveal fat deposits in the liver. Liver biopsy can confirm the diagnosis and assess the degree of inflammation and fibrosis.
Treatment of Hepatic Steatosis
The treatment of hepatic steatosis depends on the underlying cause and the severity of the condition. The main goals of treatment are to reduce fat accumulation in the liver and prevent further liver damage. Lifestyle modifications are the first-line therapy for both types of hepatic steatosis. These include quitting alcohol, losing weight, eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and managing blood sugar and cholesterol levels. Medications may be prescribed to treat the underlying conditions or to improve insulin sensitivity or reduce inflammation. In some cases, surgery or liver transplantation may be required for advanced liver disease.
Hepatic steatosis is a common and potentially serious liver condition that can affect anyone. However, with proper diagnosis and treatment, it can be prevented or reversed. Therefore, it is important to consult a doctor if you have any risk factors or symptoms of hepatic steatosis.
Sources:
- Debbo Africa: https://debbo.africa
- Cleveland Clinic. Steatotic (Fatty) Liver Disease: Symptoms & Treatment. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/15831-fatty-liver-disease (accessed Nov 19 2023).
- BMJ Best Practice. Hepatic steatosis - Symptoms, diagnosis and treatment. https://bestpractice.bmj.com/topics/en-us/796 (accessed Nov 19 2023).
- Osmosis. Hepatic Steatosis: What Is It, Causes, Diagnosis, Treatment, and More. https://www.osmosis.org/answers/hepatic-steatosis (accessed Nov 19 2023).
- Medical News Today. Steatosis: Definition, symptoms, treatment, and more. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/steatosis (accessed Nov 19 2023).