MAFLD in adults: non-invasive tests for diagnosis and monitoring of MAFLD
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
10-1-2024
Abstract
Metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) is the liver manifestation of a metabolic syndrome and is highly prevalent in the general population. There has been significant progress in non-invasive tests for MAFLD, from the diagnosis of fatty liver and monitoring of liver fat content in response to intervention, to evaluation of liver fibrosis and its change over time, and from risk stratification of patients within the context of clinical care pathways, to prognostication. Various non-invasive tests have also been developed to assess for fibrotic metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis, which has emerged as an important diagnostic goal, particularly in the context of clinical trials. Non-invasive tests can be used to diagnose clinically significant portal hypertension so that intervention can be administered to reduce the risk of decompensation. Furthermore, the use of risk stratification algorithms can identify at-risk patients for hepatocellular carcinoma surveillance. Beyond the liver, various tests that evaluate cardiovascular disease risk, assess sarcopenia and measure patient reported outcomes, can be utilized to improve the care of patients with MAFLD. This review provides an up-to-date overview of these non-invasive tests and the limitations of liver biopsy in the management of patients with MAFLD.
Keywords
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, NAFLD, Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease, MASLD, MASH, Non-alcoholic steatohepatitis, NASH
Divisions
medicinedept
Publication Title
Hepatology International
Volume
18
Issue
SUPPL
Publisher
Springer
Publisher Location
ONE NEW YORK PLAZA, SUITE 4600, NEW YORK, NY, UNITED STATES