Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD)
Hepatic steatosis (>5% of hepatocytes) in the absence of significant alcohol use or secondary causes, ranging from simple steatosis to non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) with inflammation and fibrosis.
Also: MAFLD, MASLD, Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease, NAFLD
NAFLD is the most common chronic liver disease globally, affecting ~25-30% of adults, and the leading liver indication for transplantation. It is closely tied to insulin resistance and obesity. The 2023 nomenclature change to MASLD (metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease) reframes the diagnosis as positive metabolic criteria rather than exclusion of alcohol. Weight loss (≥7-10%) is the cornerstone of treatment, with Mediterranean diet evidence accumulating.
How one textbook covers it
Modern Nutrition in Health and Disease, 12th ed. — Ch 85: Liver Disease
NAFLD is the most common chronic liver disease globally, affecting ~25-30% of adults, and the leading liver indication for transplantation. It is closely tied to insulin resistance and obesity. The 2023 nomenclature change to MASLD (metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease) reframes the diagnosis as positive metabolic criteria rather than exclusion of alcohol. Weight loss (≥7-10%) is the cornerstone of treatment, with Mediterranean diet evidence accumulating.
Related terms
Insulin resistance, Metabolic syndrome, NASH, Obesity