Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease (MASLD): A Comprehensive Review of Epidemiology, Pathophysiology, Clinical Manifestations, Diagnosis and Management.

Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) is a long-term liver condition that happens when fat builds up in the liver and there is least one cardiometabolic risk factor. MASLD can start as fat accumulation in the liver and may progress to metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH). MASH can get worse over time. Lead to liver scarring, cirrhosis and even liver cancer. Conditions like obesity, type 2 diabetes and other metabolic problems are becoming more common. This rise in metabolic disorders is driving up the number of people affected by MASLD around the world. The disease develops because of insulin resistance, problems with metabolism, oxidative stress and ongoing inflammation. Genes and changes in the gut-liver connection also contribute to the disease. Diagnosis is done through an exam, blood tests and imaging that checks for fat in the liver and fibrosis. The first steps in treatment are lifestyle changes such as losing weight, getting physical activity and managing metabolic conditions. Medical treatments should be used when needed. This review covers the spread, how the disease works, symptoms, how it is diagnosed and how it is managed.