MASLD (metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease)

What it means

In 2023, liver experts renamed nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) to MASLD. The new name describes what drives the condition, metabolic dysfunction, rather than what it is not. MedlinePlus calls MASLD the most common chronic liver disease.

Risk is higher with obesity, type 2 diabetes, prediabetes, high triglycerides or cholesterol, high blood pressure and older age. Most people have no symptoms, though some feel tired or have discomfort in the upper right belly.

Many people with MASLD have simple fatty liver, which usually causes little harm. In some, it progresses to MASH, with inflammation and scarring that can lead to cirrhosis or liver cancer.

Doctors find MASLD with blood tests, imaging such as ultrasound or a liver stiffness scan, and sometimes a biopsy. Weight loss is the main first step in treatment, and losing even part of excess weight can reduce liver fat. Limiting alcohol also protects the liver.

Why it matters

Fatty liver is common in people who qualify for GLP-1 treatment and often improves with weight loss.