Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), also known as steatohepatitis, is an inflammation of the liver caused by an accumulation of fat deposits in the liver tissue. In most people, the underlying problem is obesity, diabetes or both. Additional factors are a family history of diabetes and high blood lipids in people who are not obese. In some patients, genetic factors appear to be important.

NAFLD typically shows up as an unexpected abnormality in liver function tests, usually the alanine aminotransferase (ALT) test, in people who otherwise feel well. The elevation of this test generally is minor and in younger patients, does not indicate a serious liver condition. However, if the cause, such as obesity or diabetes, of NAFLD is not treated, the condition may progress. In people over the age of 50, the first indication of NAFLD may be a sign of serious liver disease, cirrhosis. Studies are underway to determine the precise risk of progression of NAFLD to cirrhosis; at this time, it is estimated as 20 percent. As the prevalence of obesity has been increasing in the United States, the incidence of NAFLD also has been increasing. As a result, NAFLD is now among the most common reasons that patients are referred for liver transplantation. The UCSF Liver Transplant Program, which integrates the efforts of gastroenterologists and surgeons, performs over 100 transplants each year, making it one of the leading programs in the U.S. Survival statistics are among the very best in the country.

Experts at UCSF Medical Center specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Liver specialists also are currently participating in a federally funded national network that is conducting treatment trials for the condition.

For information or to make an appointment, please call:
Liver Clinic at (415) 353-2318

Reviewed by health care specialists at UCSF Medical Center.
Last updated August 29, 2007