Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a condition in which excess fat accumulates in the liver of people who consume little or no alcohol. Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease can develop into non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), which is associated with liver inflammation and damage. Lifestyle changes, including diet and exercise, are critical components of management. The assessment of the Polygenic Risk Score for non-alcoholic fatty liver disease is based on the examination of 48 gene polymorphisms.
Genetic testing for non-alcoholic fatty liver disease is included along with 14 other diseases in the Genetic Screening for Gastrointestinal Diseases, Polygenic Risk Score.
Causes and non-genetic risk factors
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a medical condition in which excess fat accumulates in the liver. Still, unlike alcohol-related liver disease, this accumulation is not caused by excessive alcohol consumption.
Studies propose the following non-genetic factors as responsible for the disease:
- Overweight or obesity
- Certain conditions, such as type 2 diabetes mellitus or metabolic syndrome
- High concentrations of triglycerides or cholesterol
- High blood pressure
- A diet rich in fructose, a sugar commonly used to sweeten beverages and foods. The excess of this sugar is converted into lipids and exerts a toxic effect on the liver, similar to that produced by an excess of alcohol
- Changes in the composition and function of the intestinal microbiota (a set of bacteria present in the digestive tract)
Symptoms
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease is a silent disease that stands out for its scarce or absent symptomatology. Generally, it does not cause significant liver damage or complications, although it can cause discomfort due to liver enlargement. However, this disease can progress to non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), which is characterized by inflammation and liver damage, in addition to the accumulation of fat in the organ. Inflammation and liver damage can lead to fibrosis or scarring in the liver, which can eventually develop into cirrhosis. Clinical signs of cirrhosis include yellowing of the skin and eyes (jaundice), enlarged blood vessels under the skin, enlarged spleen, and red palms.
Prevention
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) can be prevented through regular physical activity, a healthy diet, and maintaining an appropriate weight. The diet should prioritize foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats while controlling triglyceride and cholesterol levels and reducing the consumption of fructose-rich beverages or foods.
