Overview
A normal liver contains a certain amount of fat in its cells. Fatty liver is characterized by the buildup of fat in the liver cells. The American Liver Foundation states that if more than 10 percent of the liver’s weight is from fat, then fatty liver is present. Fatty liver can be induced by alcohol consumption and is called alcoholic fatty liver disease. However, those who drink low or zero amounts of alcohol can also develop fatty liver. This condition is called nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. Serious complications can result from fatty liver; the liver can become hardened, and cirrhosis, liver damage or failure can occur. Fortunately, fatty liver can be reversed with proper treatment.
Causes
Fatty liver in the nonalcoholic population is caused by the liver being unable to properly break down fat, causing it to build up in the tissue. It is unknown what exactly causes this to happen; however, according to Mayo Clinic, a high-calorie diet, certain medications, high cholesterol, high triglycerides, obesity, diabetes, rapid weight loss and malnutrition may increase the risk of developing fatty liver. Alcoholic fatty liver disease is caused by the damage to the liver cells over time from alcoholism, which causes them to store excess fat.
Symptoms
Most people with both types of fatty liver may have no symptoms. As both types progress, fatigue, weight loss, abdominal discomfort, weakness and confusion may occur as well as pain in the upper-right abdomen. It is recommended that a consultation with a medical professional be scheduled if any of these symptoms persist.
Diagnosis
Blood tests are common when diagnosing fatty liver. Liver function and liver enzyme tests are regularly used blood tests. Computerized tomography, or CT, scans; ultrasounds; and magnetic resonance imaging, or MRIs, are imaging procedures used to examine the liver to identify if fatty liver is present. A doctor may want to do a liver tissue biopsy, which is a more complicated procedure. Liver tissue is examined in the laboratory to determine whether any inflammation, scarring or other signs of fatty liver are present.
Complications
If fatty liver develops, and treatments are not followed correctly, other complications can occur. Cirrhosis, which is abnormal amounts of nonliving scar tissue in the liver, can develop in alcoholic and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. This causes decreased function of the liver, which can cause death.
Other conditions in the alcoholic population can include alcoholic hepatitis. Alcoholic hepatitis is the beginning stages of the hardening of liver tissue and can lead to liver enlargement and tenderness. Left untreated, alcoholic hepatitis can lead to coma or death.
Treatment and Prevention
According to the American Liver Foundation, there are currently no surgical or medical treatments available, but research is ongoing for possible future treatments. Treatment for fatty liver includes diet and medication therapy. Weight loss through diet and exercise is critical in treating this condition. Lowering triglycerides through a lower fat diet or medication is also necessary. Alcohol should be avoided and regular checkups are important.
Prevention measures include following a balanced diet, being physically active and staying at a healthy weight.
About this Author
Jennifer Marie is a freelance writer from Cincinnati, Ohio. She has a Bachelor of Science in health and sports studies and a Master of Science in nutrition. She is currently completing her internship to become a registered dietitian.
