Fatty Liver Disease

Fatty Liver Disease, also known as hepatic steatosis, means there's too much fat stored in your liver cells. It's a very common condition and often doesn't cause any noticeable symptoms in its early stages. There are two main types: Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD), which is now often referred to as Metabolic Dysfunction-associated Fatty Liver Disease (MAFLD), and Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (AFLD). While a small amount of fat in the liver is normal, too much can lead to inflammation, liver damage, and potentially more serious conditions over time. MAFLD is typically linked to metabolic risk factors like obesity, type 2 diabetes, insulin resistance, high cholesterol, and high triglycerides. AFLD, as the name suggests, is caused by heavy alcohol consumption. If left unmanaged, fatty liver can sometimes progress to more severe forms, such as steatohepatitis (fatty liver with inflammation), fibrosis (scarring), cirrhosis (severe scarring that impairs liver function), and in rare cases, liver failure or liver cancer. Lab tests are crucial because fatty liver often has no outward signs. When you see elevated liver enzymes (like ALT and AST) on your lab results, it can indicate that your liver cells are damaged or inflamed, prompting further investigation. Your doctor may also check your blood sugar, cholesterol, and triglyceride levels to identify underlying causes. These tests, along with imaging studies (like ultrasound), help your healthcare provider assess the health of your liver, determine the potential causes, and decide on the best course of action to manage the condition and prevent its progression.