Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease

Abstract

The prevalence of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) continues to increase rapidly, and NAFLD has become the most common cause of chronic liver disease in children and young people. Closely associated with the rise in obesity, the precise aetiology and pathophysiology of NAFLD are not fully understood. Both genetic and environmental factors contribute to the development of the disease. The diagnosis of NAFLD is one of exclusion and made on histology however such as the potential prevalence of the disease that biopsy is not always practical - thus, there is a need to further develop noninvasive biomarkers to reliably identify and stage the disease. The histological pattern of the disease in children and young people frequently differs from that found in adults. Long-term outcome is not yet certain; however, significant nonalcoholic steatohepatitis may progress to end-stage liver disease and/or hepatocellular carcinoma. Management in children and young people is largely focused on lifestyle change; however, there are emerging pharmacological therapies under investigation.