Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease: Implications for Clinical Practice and Health Promotion

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), a condition caused by fatty infiltration of the liver, in the absence of large alcohol consumption, that can result in liver failure. It is the leading cause of elevated liver enzymes in adults and of liver disease in children, and it is increasing in the United States commensurately with obesity. Initially an asymptomatic disease, diagnosis is based on risk factor assessment, laboratory findings, and imaging studies. Prevention and early intervention require lifestyle changes. Prognosis is typically good, especially early in the disease course.