Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is defined as hepatic steatosis without significant alcohol-related or other causes of secondary steatosis, and is the most widespread liver disease in the industrialised world with around 20-30% of the global population affected. NAFLD ranges from steatosis on as own (NAFL) to nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) and cirrhosis, and on towards hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). NAFLD development is multifactorial with influences including genetic and epigenetic, hormonal and environmental factors, and especially lifestyle. Peripheral and hepatic insulin resistance is a common link to the established risk factors that include visceral obesity, hyper caloric diet, and lack of physical activity. NAFLD is not an isolated liver disease as it causes a variety of metabolic disorders including type 2 diabetes, kidney disease, and atherosclerotic issues such as coronary heart disease. NAFLD is diagnosed using imaging procedures, especially sonography, and biochemical and anthropometric data in routine clinical practice; treatment involves lifestyle intervention consisting of exercise and nutritional therapy.