Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis (NASH)
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Overview
Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis, or NASH, is a more severe form of Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD), where excess fat in the liver is accompanied by inflammation and liver cell damage. NASH can cause the liver to swell and may lead to fibrosis (scarring), cirrhosis, and even liver failure if left untreated.
Please note:
NAFLD and NASH have recently been renamed.
NAFLD is now called Metabolic Dysfunction Associated Steatotic Liver Disease (MASLD).
NASH is now called Metabolic Dysfunction Associated Steatohepatitis (MASH).
The most common cause, as it significantly reduces the liver’s ability to function.
Sudden loss of liver function due to factors like viral hepatitis, drug overdose, or toxins.
High blood pressure in the liver can lead to the diversion of blood around the liver, allowing toxins to bypass detoxification.
Bleeding in the intestines can increase the amount of toxins that the liver must process.
Infections, especially bacterial infections in people with liver disease, can trigger or worsen HE.
Imbalances in sodium, potassium, and other electrolytes may also contribute to HE development.
Who Develops NASH?
NASH (MASH) typically develops in people who are:
- Overweight or obese
- Living with diabetes or prediabetes
- Having high cholesterol or triglycerides
- Experiencing metabolic syndrome (a cluster of risk factors including high blood sugar, obesity, and hypertension)
However, some individuals may develop NASH even without these common risk factors.
Most people affected by NAFLD/MASLD and NASH/MASH are between 40 and 60 years old, but the condition can also occur in younger adults and children. Women tend to be more commonly affected than men.
How Common is NASH?
NASH affects approximately 1.5% to 6.5% of U.S. adults, translating to roughly 9 to 15 million people. The prevalence of NASH is expected to increase by 63% by 2030. Due to this rise, NASH is projected to become the leading cause of liver transplantation in the United States by 2025.
NASH is also a major risk factor for developing hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), a form of liver cancer.
What Are the Symptoms of NASH?
In early stages, NASH often causes no symptoms. When symptoms appear, they may include:
- Fatigue or feeling unusually tired
- Discomfort or pain in the upper right abdomen (where the liver is located)
As liver damage progresses, symptoms may become more severe, including jaundice, swelling, or confusion in advanced stages.
How is NASH Diagnosed?
NASH is frequently diagnosed during routine blood tests that show elevated liver enzymes or during imaging tests performed for other reasons. Because many patients have no symptoms, screening for NAFLD/MASLD and NASH/MASH is not currently recommended as a routine medical practice.
In some cases, a liver biopsy may be necessary to confirm the diagnosis and assess the severity of liver inflammation and scarring.
What Are the Risks and Complications of NASH?
If untreated, NASH can lead to:
- Liver fibrosis (scarring)
- Cirrhosis (advanced scarring)
- Liver failure
- Liver cancer (hepatocellular carcinoma)
Early diagnosis and management are crucial to prevent progression.
How is NASH Treated?
Currently, there are no approved medications specifically for NASH. Treatment focuses on lifestyle modifications such as:
- Weight loss through healthy diet and regular exercise
- Managing related conditions like diabetes, high cholesterol, and high blood pressure
- Avoiding alcohol to prevent further liver damage
Weight loss of 7-10% of body weight has been shown to improve liver inflammation and fibrosis in many patients.
How Can Liver Transplantation Portal Help You?
If NASH (MASH) progresses to advanced liver disease or cirrhosis, liver transplantation may become necessary. Liver Transplantation Portal connects you with expert liver specialists and transplant centers to guide you through diagnosis, treatment options, and the transplant donor matching process. Our platform ensures personalized support tailored to your health needs.
Why Choose Liver Transplantation Portal?
We are committed to providing trusted, expert-driven care and support for patients with liver diseases including NASH/MASH. With access to top specialists and resources, Liver Transplantation Portal helps you manage your liver health effectively and access life-saving transplant services when needed.
Contact us today to learn more about NASH/MASH and how we can assist you on your journey to better liver health.