NAFLD
Also written as: NAFLD — Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease
A liver condition characterized by fat accumulation in hepatocytes without significant alcohol consumption, commonly associated with insulin resistance and metabolic dysfunction.
Full Definition
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) represents a spectrum of liver conditions ranging from simple steatosis to non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) and cirrhosis. It is the most common chronic liver disease globally and is strongly associated with obesity, type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular disease. The condition is diagnosed when hepatic fat content exceeds 5% of liver weight in the absence of significant alcohol consumption or other causes of hepatic steatosis. NAFLD has become increasingly important in cardiometabolic medicine as it represents a hepatic manifestation of insulin resistance and is considered an independent risk factor for cardiovascular events.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish clearly from NASH, which represents the inflammatory subtype of NAFLD.
In Context
- "The prevalence of NAFLD has increased dramatically alongside the obesity epidemic." — Epidemiological study
- "Patients with type 2 diabetes should be screened for NAFLD using liver enzymes and imaging studies." — Clinical practice guideline