MASH
What is Metabolic-dysfunction-associated Steatohepatitis (MASH)?
Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH) is a serious and progressive liver condition where excess fat builds up in the liver, causing inflammation and damage to liver cells.
What are the Stages of MASH?
Healthy Liver
MSLD
Fat accumulation in the liver, i.e. Steatosis
MASH
Fat with inflammation and scarring, i.e. fibrosis
Healthy Liver
MSLD
Fat accumulation in the liver, i.e. Steatosis
MASH
Fat with inflammation and scarring, i.e. fibrosis
Reversible
Cirrhosis
Scar tissue replaces the liver cell
Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Irreversible
How is it Linked to Overall Health?
MASH is an advanced stage of fatty liver disease and is commonly linked to obesity, type 2 diabetes, and other metabolic health problems.
Why is it Important to Know About MASH?
If not treated in time, MASH can lead to serious long-term liver disease, increase the chances of needing a liver transplant, raise the risk of heart-related problems, and in severe cases, may lead to death.
How do You Know if You have MASH?
Your doctor may recommend one or more of the following tests:
Blood Tests
- CBC, Liver enzymes, lipid panel, etc.
Imaging
- Ultrasound (hepatic steatosis)
- Transient elastography (fibrosis assessment)
Non-invasive Fibrosis Scores
- FIB-4: Fibrosis-4 Index (Age, Liver enzymes, and platelet count are used to measure the FIB-4 score)
- NFS: NAFLD (Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease) Fibrosis Score