Fatty change

Fatty change, also known as steatosis, is a reversible condition where large vacuoles of triglyceride fat accumulate in liver cells due to metabolic imbalances. This condition is common in alcoholism and malnutrition.

Causes

Fatty change can be caused by various factors, including alcohol abuse, obesity, diabetes, and starvation. It can also be a side effect of certain medications, such as methotrexate or tamoxifen, and is often seen in pregnancy due to hormonal changes.

Pathogenesis

The pathogenesis of fatty change involves an imbalance between the processes of lipogenesis and lipolysis, leading to an accumulation of triglycerides within the cells. This can be due to an increase in fatty acid influx, a decrease in fatty acid oxidation, or a combination of both.

Symptoms

In many cases, fatty change is asymptomatic and is only discovered during routine medical examinations. However, if the condition progresses, it can lead to hepatomegaly (enlarged liver), and in severe cases, can cause cirrhosis or liver failure.

Diagnosis

Fatty change is usually diagnosed through liver function tests, ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI. In some cases, a liver biopsy may be required to confirm the diagnosis and assess the extent of liver damage.

Treatment

Treatment for fatty change focuses on addressing the underlying cause. This may involve lifestyle changes, such as a healthy diet and regular exercise, and reducing alcohol consumption. In some cases, medication may be prescribed to help reduce the amount of fat in the liver.

See also

• Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease
• Alcoholic liver disease
• Hepatosteatosis