Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD/MASLD)

Excess hepatic fat accumulation in the absence of significant alcohol intake.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board

Last updated: June 11, 2026

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Dahiliye (İç Hastalıkları) department. Book Appointment →

What is Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD/MASLD)?

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD / now renamed MASLD) is a disease spectrum characterised by lipid accumulation in hepatocytes without significant alcohol use. It can progress from simple steatosis to non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), fibrosis and cirrhosis.

It is the most common chronic liver disease worldwide, affecting 25-30% of the general population. Obesity, type 2 diabetes, dyslipidaemia and metabolic syndrome are key risk factors. Insulin resistance has a central role in pathogenesis.

Simple steatosis is generally benign; however, progression to NASH increases the risk of fibrosis, cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. The FIB-4 score and transient elastography (FibroScan) are used for non-invasive fibrosis assessment.

Symptoms

Mostly asymptomatic (incidentally detected)

Right upper quadrant pain or discomfort

Fatigue

Hepatomegaly

Cirrhosis findings in advanced stages (ascites, jaundice, variceal bleeding)

Risk Factors

Obesity (especially central obesity)

Type 2 diabetes

Dyslipidaemia

Metabolic syndrome

Polycystic ovary syndrome

Obstructive sleep apnoea

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

Fatty liver detected on ultrasound
Unexplained elevation in liver enzymes
Components of metabolic syndrome present
Suspicion of fibrosis (FIB-4 >1.3)

Treatment Methods

Weight loss (7-10% — can resolve steatohepatitis)

Mediterranean diet and regular exercise

Pioglitazone (in diabetic NASH patients)

Vitamin E (800 IU/day — in non-diabetic NASH)

GLP-1 receptor agonists (semaglutide — effective in trials)

Bariatric surgery (in morbid obesity)

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Dahiliye (İç Hastalıkları) department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.