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Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease (MASLD) Management

Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease, formerly known as NAFLD, represents a spectrum of liver disorders attributed to excessive fat accumulation in the liver. Such accumulation in the liver eventually develops into hepatitis, and if this is left unaddressed, it leads to serious problems of the liver over time.

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Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease, formerly known as NAFLD, represents a spectrum of liver disorders attributed to excessive fat accumulation in the liver. Such accumulation in the liver eventually develops into hepatitis, and if this is left unaddressed, it leads to serious problems of the liver over time.

MASLD is one of the most common chronic liver diseases resulting from the increase in obesity and Type 2 diabetes amongst individuals globally. It now afflicts approximately 30% of the global population. Obesity and diabetes are two major contributors, and this requires urgent early diagnosis and intervention before complications arise.

Our team of professional diabetologists/endocrinologists at Marengo Asia Hospitals cares for people with a risk factor for MASLD and those diagnosed with the disease. By addressing the root cause, our team provides a comprehensive treatment plan that focuses on lifestyle changes, medical management, and follow-up support for maintaining good liver health as well as general wellness of the patients.

Complications of Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease (MASLD)

MASLD can cause severe complications, especially if it progresses to a more serious state, known as MASH, the Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatohepatitis. MASH is characterized by liver inflammation and damage, which can lead to more serious health complications such as:

Liver-Related Complications:

  • MASH with Liver Fibrosis: In due course, the liver may develop fibrosis. Fibrosis refers to the scarring of tissue that manifests itself as the liver tries to recover from injury by degrading its ability to perform its functions appropriately.
  • MASH-Related Cirrhosis: Severe fibrosis can be a precursor to cirrhosis. Cirrhosis is distortion of structure and function in the liver, which develops from its serious scarring. If not treated, it results in liver failure.
  • Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC): MASH causes chronic inflammation and damage to the liver, which may result in hepatocellular carcinoma. Hepatocellular carcinoma is the most common form of liver cancer.

Systemic Complications:

MASLD is more than just liver disease and presents an enormous additional risk for other fatal diseases, which are:

  • Cardiovascular Disease: A person with MASLD is also at a greater risk for developing heart disease, because the risk factors for the disease, such as obesity and diabetes, also lead to atherosclerosis and other cardiovascular diseases.
  • Type 2 Diabetes: MASLD may worsen an existing diabetes or even enhance the risk of developing diabetes in people who do not have the disease.
  • Cancer: Besides hepatocellular carcinoma, MASLD has been linked to an increased risk of several other cancers, including breast and colorectal cancers, which might be due to similar metabolic pathways.

Importance of Early Intervention:

Early diagnosis and intervention will help minimize these complications. Lifestyle measures like weight reduction, dietary intervention, and increased exercise may greatly reduce liver fat and may improve metabolic well-being. Medical treatment would still be necessary to control specific risk factors or complications.

Meeting and consulting with experts like diabetologists/ endocrinologists will help individuals suffering from MASLD develop their specific care plans to manage the condition well and prevent it from growing further. A committed and experienced team of endocrinologists/diabetologists at Marengo Asia Hospitals is uniquely equipped to provide reliable and comprehensive care for MASLD.

What Are the Various Tests Performed by Diabetologists/Endocrinologists to Diagnose and Treat MASLD?

MASLD is strongly associated with metabolic disorders such as Type 2 diabetes, obesity, and dyslipidemia. Diabetologists/endocrinologists play a vital role in the diagnosis and management of MASLD using advanced tests that evaluate liver health, metabolic function, and associated risk factors.

Blood Tests

Blood tests provide valuable information on the state of the liver and metabolic health. Some of the main tests include:

  • Complete Blood Count (CBC): The Complete Blood Count test will assess the quantity, size, and quality of red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets present in the blood. It's very important in diagnosing anemia, as anemia can worsen the symptoms of MASLD such as fatigue. Abnormal counts of white blood cells may represent infections or inflammation, which could also affect the condition of the liver. In addition, platelet counts are done to exclude bleeding disorders that might occur with advanced liver disease like cirrhosis.
  • Iron Studies: Iron studies check the amount of iron in your blood and also the ability to store and use this vital nutrient. High iron levels, called hemochromatosis, can cause damage to the liver, which worsens MASLD. Low iron can be a marker of chronic illness or poor nutrition, both of which can also affect the general function of the liver. The test is therefore useful in helping to distinguish MASLD from other medical conditions.
  • Liver Enzyme and Function Tests: The tests of the liver enzyme estimate the amount of alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST), enzymes found in the bloodstream when liver cells are destroyed. Increased amounts usually suggest liver inflammation or damage, which is commonly linked with MASLD. Liver function tests assess various chemicals, such as albumin and bilirubin, and allow one to have an understanding of the liver’s capability to synthesize proteins and clear waste.
  • Tests for Chronic Viral Hepatitis: These tests test for hepatitis viruses (A, B, and C), which may cause chronic inflammation and scarring to the liver. Viral hepatitis can occur simultaneously with MASLD or mimic its symptoms to pose a challenge in diagnosing and treating MASLD. It is important to recognize and treat viral hepatitis. This is because untreated viral infections progress rapidly to cirrhosis or liver carcinoma.
  • Celiac Disease Screening: Tests for sensitivity to gluten, a disorder that sometimes coincides with liver diseases.
  • Fasting Blood Sugar and Hemoglobin A1C: Tests for blood glucose levels and average glucose control. This is vital because MASLD is closely associated with diabetes.
  • Lipid Profile: Tests for cholesterol and triglycerides, which are usually elevated in the patient with MASLD.
  • Imaging Procedures

    Imaging studies identify fat, inflammation and fibrosis of the liver. These non-invasive tools are very important to assess the extent of MASLD:

    • Abdominal Ultrasound: This test gauges fat accumulation in the live. It is usually the first test done if you suspect MASLD.
    • Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) or CT Scans: MRI or CT shows clear images of the liver and can help in detecting mild fibrosis.
    • Transient Elastography: A specific ultrasound that estimates the stiffness of the liver, which can reveal scarring or fibrosis.
    • Magnetic Resonance Elastography (MRE): A combination of MRI with sound waves that help map the stiff tissue in the liver to get a more accurate delineation of the severity of fibrosis.

    Additional Evaluations

    To get an overall view of metabolic health and factors contributing to MASLD, diabetologists and endocrinologists may advise the following as well:

    • Insulin Resistance Testing: A strong driver of MASLD, determined by fasting levels of insulin and glucose.
    • Thyroid Function Tests: Excludes hypothyroidism as one of the contributors to MASLD.

    Biopsy for Complex Cases

    A liver biopsy will be advised where imaging and blood studies are inconclusive or if any other liver disorder is suspected. This involves sampling a small bit of tissue so that the possibility of inflammation or fibrosis can be viewed using a microscope.

    Comprehensive MASLD Management at Marengo Asia Hospitals

    MASLD is a complex medical condition, which necessarily requires a multidisciplinary treatment approach. At Marengo Asia Hospitals, we provide personalized evidence-based care to manage every stage of MASLD with attention to sustainable weight loss and associated medical conditions like diabetes mellitus and high cholesterol to prevent complications, such as liver cirrhosis.
    Our comprehensive treatment plan includes:

    1. Lifestyle Modifications

    Lifestyle changes are the bedrock of managing MASLD. Our experts guide people to sustainable habits to improve the state of their liver health:

    • Weight Loss: Losing even 3 to 5 percent of your body weight has been shown to reduce liver fat and inflammation. For advanced benefits, a 10% reduction may be advised by your healthcare provider.
    • Dietary Plans: Our nutritionists create personalized meal plans, including options like the Mediterranean diet or DASH diet, which focuses on healthy fats, whole grains, lean proteins, and fresh fruits and vegetables.
    • Physical Activity: Moderate physical activity 30 minutes a day, three times a week, supports weight loss and good metabolic health. Activities are accordingly tailored to each patient's ability and preference.

    2. Medications

    In patients who need more than just lifestyle modification, medications are helpful in the treatment of MASLD and its complications:

    • GLP-1 Agonists: These are excellent for diabetic or obese patients; they decrease glucose levels and enhance weight loss. Examples include:
    • Semaglutide
    • Liraglutide
    • Tirzepatide
    • Saroglitazar
    • Vitamin E

    3. Bariatric Surgery

    Bariatric surgery is often an effective option for patients who suffer from severe obesity and cannot achieve a significant loss of weight with the help of lifestyle and medication. If done before the development of cirrhosis, this surgical intervention can reverse MASLD.

    Our diabetologists at Marengo Asia Hospitals coordinate with bariatric surgeons who determine the need for surgery and are willing to do whatever it takes to ensure the best outcomes for patients.

FAQ'S

No, MASLD is not alcohol-induced. It develops independently of alcohol use and was previously termed nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) to indicate that distinction. Alcohol can exacerbate the condition by speeding up the process of cirrhosis. Individuals diagnosed with MASLD are highly discouraged from drinking alcohol to prevent further liver damage.

Although it may not be feasible to prevent risk factors such as obesity or Type 2 diabetes, early diagnosis, and lifestyle interventions can significantly reduce the risk of MASLD. People with metabolic risk factors like diabetes or hypercholesterolemia must be screened through blood and imaging tests. The earlier MASLD is detected, the easier it will be to introduce healthier eating habits, an active lifestyle, and even minimal weight loss to avoid MASLD or slow its progression.

MASLD often presents asymptomatic in its early stages, meaning it progresses silently. Symptoms only occur when the condition progresses to metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH), where the damage to the liver becomes severe. Symptoms of severe liver damage include upper right abdominal pain, intense fatigue, loss of appetite, swelling of the abdomen, yellowing of the skin and eyes, jaundice, and unexplained weight loss. If you have these symptoms, you should seek medical attention right away.

MASLD results from a metabolic impairment that leads to inefficient energy production within the body. Major determinants include dyslipidemia (elevated blood fats, such as cholesterol), obesity (abdominal obesity particularly), insulin resistance (cells failing to respond well to insulin), and Type 2 diabetes. All these can result in a collection of excess fat in the liver, with the risk of inflammation and eventually scarring of the liver in the long run.

Marengo Asia Hospitals offers patient-centred and a multidisciplinary approach to MASLD management. The team of highly skilled diabetologists tailors their efforts to combine the best lifestyle modification, medication, and advanced intervention for each patient. The experts ensure that both diabetes and obesity are taken into account and are treated properly.

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