Nomenclature and Definition of Metabolic-Associated Fatty Liver Disease: A Consensus From the Middle East and North Africa Publisher Pubmed



Shiha G^{1, 2} ; Alswat K³ ; Al Khatry M⁴ ; Sharara AI⁵ ; Ormeci N⁶ ; Waked I⁷ ; Benazzouz M⁸ ; Alali F⁹ ; Hamed AE¹⁰ ; Hamoudi W¹¹ ; Attia D¹² ; Derbala M¹³ ; Sharafeldin M¹⁴ ; Albusafi SA¹⁵ Show All Authors
Source: The Lancet Gastroenterology and Hepatology Published:2021

Abstract

With the increasing prevalence of obesity and type 2 diabetes, fatty liver disease associated with metabolic dysfunction is a global health problem, especially because it is one of the earliest consequences of obesity and it precedes diabetes development. Fatty liver disease associated with metabolic dysfunction is of particular concern in the Middle East and north Africa, where its prevalence is greater than that in the rest of the world. Despite the magnitude of the problem, no regional guidelines have been developed to address this disease. This Review describes suggestions of redefining fatty liver disease associated with metabolic dysfunction, including its terminology and criteria for diagnosis. Experts have raised serious concerns on the current nomenclature, which labels the disease as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), and its diagnostic criteria. The panel reached a consensus that the disease should be renamed as metabolic-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) and that the disease should be diagnosed by positive criteria. The aim is now to work with authorities across the region to implement these proposed changes and reflect them in health-care policy and to improve health care for patients in this region. © 2021 Elsevier Ltd