Abstract:
Metabolically associated fatty liver disease, recently redefined from non-alcoholic
fatty liver disease, has emerged as the most common chronic liver disease worldwide. The new nomenclature emphasizes the metabolic drivers and highlights
its strong links to extrahepatic disorders such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease,
and chronic kidney disease. Yet, controversies remain regarding terminology,
diagnostic thresholds, and the lack of effective disease-modifying drugs. This
review discusses the rationale for the new definition, summarizes current
knowledge of pathogenesis and the clinical spectrum, and highlights critical
research gaps, including the role of gut microbiota, the need for improved risk
stratification, and the evaluation of novel therapeutic classes.
