What is Fatty Liver Disease Evaluation?
Fatty liver disease evaluation is the clinical assessment of excess fat accumulation in the liver and its impact on liver function. Fatty liver may be related to metabolic factors such as obesity, diabetes, and high cholesterol, or to alcohol use. Evaluation helps determine the severity of liver injury, identify inflammation or scarring, and guide treatment to prevent progression to cirrhosis or liver failure.
When is Fatty Liver Disease Evaluation Recommended?
Evaluation is recommended for individuals with risk factors or persistent liver-related symptoms. Common indications include:
- Elevated liver enzymes on routine testing
- Obesity, diabetes, or metabolic syndrome
- Unexplained fatigue or abdominal discomfort
- History of alcohol use or liver disease
- High triglycerides or insulin resistance
- Imaging showing liver fat (steatosis)
- Concern for fibrosis or cirrhosis
Early evaluation is especially important because fatty liver disease often has no symptoms until advanced.
How is Fatty Liver Disease Evaluation Performed?
Assessment begins with a medical history, physical examination, and review of metabolic risk factors. Blood tests evaluate liver function and markers of inflammation. Imaging, such as ultrasound or MRI, helps identify fat accumulation. A FibroScan or elastography may be performed to measure liver stiffness and determine the presence of fibrosis or scarring. In selected cases, a liver biopsy may be recommended to confirm the diagnosis and determine severity.
What are the Benefits of Evaluation?
Evaluation can:
- Detect fatty liver early, before irreversible damage occurs
- Identify inflammation and fibrosis requiring treatment
- Guide lifestyle, medication, and metabolic management
- Reduce progression to cirrhosis, liver cancer, or transplant