steato

Steato refers to a fatty change in an organ or tissue. The most common form is hepatic steatosis, also known as fatty liver disease. This condition occurs when there is an accumulation of fat in the liver cells. Hepatic steatosis can be broadly categorized into alcoholic fatty liver disease, which is caused by excessive alcohol consumption, and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). NAFLD is often associated with metabolic risk factors such as obesity, diabetes, high cholesterol, and high blood pressure.

While fatty liver is often asymptomatic, it can lead to inflammation (steatohepatitis), fibrosis, cirrhosis, and in severe cases, liver cancer. Diagnosis typically involves blood tests to assess liver function, imaging studies like ultrasound or CT scans, and sometimes a liver biopsy for a definitive diagnosis and staging.

Treatment for steatohepatitis focuses on addressing the underlying causes. For alcoholic fatty liver disease, abstinence from alcohol is crucial. For NAFLD, lifestyle modifications including weight loss, a healthy diet, and regular exercise are the cornerstone of management. Medications may be used to manage associated conditions like diabetes and high cholesterol. Early detection and intervention are important to prevent the progression of liver damage.