Issue 5/2025
Boykova, Р.
Clinic of Gastroenterology, Medical University, Varna, St. Marina University Hospital – Varna
Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is defined as the presence of hepatic steatosis in more than 5% of hepatocytes, as determined by imaging or histological examination, in individuals consuming little or no alcohol, and in whom a secondary cause of steatosis has been excluded. As our understanding of the pathogenetic processes of this disease advances and the awareness of the clear link to underlying systemic metabolic dysfunction increases, an international group of experts has introduced a new nomenclature for the definition and abbreviation of steatotic diseases. Metabolic dysfunction associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) is defined as the presence of hepatic steatosis in conjunction with one cardiometabolic risk factor (CMRF) and no other discernible cause and average daily alcohol intake lower than 20/30 g for female/male. The new concept offers a better understanding of the disease in the context of underlying cardio-metabolic disorders associated with insulin resistance, rather than being a diagnosis of exclusion. The current consensus approach emphasizes robust and readily available clinical criteria and biomarkers.
Address for correspondence:
Dr. P. Boykova, MD
Medical University, Varna, St. Marina University Hospital,
Gastroenterology Clinic
1, „Hristo Smirnenski“, Blvd.
9010, Varna
e-mail: pavlina_gbv@abv.bg