MASLD research identifies five distinct subtypes of liver disease

Researchers led by the Mayo Clinic have proposed that Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), formerly known as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, should be treated as five distinct subtypes rather than a single condition. This classification aims to improve patient assessment and intervention strategies.

By analyzing medical data from over 4,600 patients using computational modeling, the team identified subgroups based on sex, body mass index (BMI), blood biomarkers, and connected health conditions such as obesity and high cholesterol. This precision allows clinicians to better anticipate disease progression and intervene before severe damage, such as fibrosis or cirrhosis, occurs.

Clinical guidance suggests that while a weight loss of 3 to 5 percent can measurably reduce liver fat, a reduction of 7 to 10 percent is often necessary to positively influence existing inflammation or fibrosis. Experts emphasize that lifestyle modifications, including 150 minutes of moderate physical activity per week and diets rich in vegetables and fiber, remain central to management.