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NAFLD or MAFLD

Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease — at Concierge Endocrinology of New Jersey

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Overview

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), also increasingly referred to as metabolic-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD), is a condition characterized by the buildup of fat in the liver that is not related to heavy alcohol consumption. Your liver is a vital organ that aids in digestion, energy storage, and the removal of toxins from your body.

NAFLD includes two forms: simple fatty liver (steatosis), where there is fat in the liver but minimal inflammation or cell damage, and nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), which involves inflammation, liver cell damage, and fat in the liver. NASH can lead to serious complications such as cirrhosis (scarring) or liver cancer.

NAFLD affects about 25% of people worldwide and is the most common chronic liver disorder in the United States. It is closely associated with metabolic conditions such as type 2 diabetes, obesity, and insulin resistance.

Signs & Symptoms

Most people with NAFLD have no symptoms in the early stages
Fatigue
Discomfort or pain in the upper right side of the abdomen
As the disease progresses to cirrhosis: jaundice, swelling in the abdomen, and easy bruising

Causes & Risk Factors

The exact cause is unknown, but it is strongly associated with metabolic conditions
Type 2 diabetes and prediabetes
Obesity, especially excess abdominal fat
High levels of fats in the blood (cholesterol and triglycerides)
High blood pressure
Insulin resistance and metabolic syndrome
Being middle-aged or older
Rapid weight loss
Certain infections like hepatitis C
Exposure to some toxins
Certain medications

Diagnosis

NAFLD is often discovered incidentally during routine blood tests that show elevated liver enzymes. A healthcare provider may suspect NAFLD based on your medical history, physical examination, and risk factors.

Diagnostic tools include blood tests for liver function, imaging studies such as ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI to detect fat in the liver, and in some cases, a liver biopsy to determine the extent of inflammation and scarring. FibroScan (transient elastography) is a non-invasive test that can assess liver stiffness.

Treatment Options

Weight loss — reducing fat, inflammation, and fibrosis in the liver (the most effective treatment)
Healthy diet low in salt and sugar, with plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
Regular exercise and physical activity
Discontinuing any medications suspected of causing the condition (under doctor's supervision)
Managing underlying conditions such as diabetes, high cholesterol, and high blood pressure
Vaccination for hepatitis A and B, flu, and pneumococcal disease
Avoiding alcohol consumption
In severe cases progressing to liver failure, a liver transplant may be necessary
Some diabetes medications and Vitamin E are being studied as potential treatments

Important Facts

NAFLD affects about 25% of people worldwide — it is the most common chronic liver disorder in the United States.

Most people with NAFLD have no symptoms, making regular screening important for those with risk factors.

Talk with your doctor before using any dietary supplements, vitamins, or herbal remedies, as some can be harmful to the liver.

Weight loss through diet and exercise is currently the most effective treatment for NAFLD.

Medical information adapted from MedlinePlus — U.S. National Library of Medicine. Always consult with your physician for personalized medical advice.

Expert NAFLD or MAFLD Care

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Request Appointment Call (609) 250-2766