Fatty Liver

by Advanced GI WA

Fatty liver disease is an accumulation of fat in the liver. It can lead to serious complications such as cirrhosis. It is one of the most common liver diseases in Australia and a common reason for abnormal liver tests and ultrasound results.

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a common disorder that now affects up to one-third of the adult population. It is increasingly common in children.

Increasing age, obesity, insulin resistance and diabetes are risk factors. Less common causes can include pregnancy, some medications (e.g. corticosteroids) and other diseases.

Excess liver fat is associated with an increased risk of developing liver cirrhosis, diabetes, high blood pressure, cardiovascular events or specific cancers. The good news is that fatty liver is reversible.