Journal article

Authors list: Roeb, Elke

Publication year: 2022

Pages: 126-132

Journal: Visceral Medicine

Volume number: 38

Issue number: 2

ISSN: 2297-4725

eISSN: 2297-475X

Open access status: Hybrid

DOI Link: https://doi.org/10.1159/000519611

Publisher: Karger Publishers

Abstract: 
Background: The prevalence of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is increasing and strongly associated with the metabolic syndrome, especially with obesity. A subtype, nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), might progress to advanced fibrosis and cirrhosis. NASH patients have an increased all-cause mortality. First and foremost are malignancies, followed by cardiovascular diseases. Summary: The NAFLD fibrosis score and noninvasive liver stiffness measurement (transient hepatic elastography) are essential components for the diagnostic risk assessment of NAFLD patients. Other steatoses (alcohol, genetic disorders, drugs, toxins, malnutrition, etc.) must be considered in the differential diagnosis. So far, there is no approved liver-specific drug therapy with a proven effect on NAFLD for patients without diabetes mellitus. Obeticholic acid (FXR agonist), cenicriviroc (a dual inhibitor of the chemokine receptors (CCR), CCR2 and CCR5), acetyl-CoA carboxylase inhibitors, and several thyroid hormone analogs are the most advanced substances in clinical development in ongoing phase 2 and 3 studies. Key Messages: Weight loss, physical training, and the screening and treatment of risk factors represent the cornerstones of NAFLD therapy. Treatment with glucagon-like peptide 1 analogs (e.g., liraglutide, semaglutide) and sodium-dependent glucose transporter 2 inhibitors can be recommended in patients with diabetes and NASH.

Harvard Citation style: Roeb, E. (2022) Diagnostic and Therapy of Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease: A Narrative Review, Visceral Medicine, 38(2), pp. 126-132. https://doi.org/10.1159/000519611

APA Citation style: Roeb, E. (2022). Diagnostic and Therapy of Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease: A Narrative Review. Visceral Medicine. 38(2), 126-132. https://doi.org/10.1159/000519611