Lean NAFLD: an underrecognized and challenging disorder in medicine

Rev Endocr Metab Disord. 2021 Jun;22(2):351-366. doi: 10.1007/s11154-020-09621-1. Epub 2021 Jan 3.

Abstract

Classically, Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) has been thought to be driven by excessive weight gain and obesity. The overall greater awareness of this disorder has led to its recognition in patients with normal body mass index (BMI). Ongoing research has helped to better understand potential causes of Lean NAFLD, the risks for more advanced disease, and potential therapies. Here we review the recent literature on prevalence, risk factors, severity of disease, and potential therapeutic interventions.

Keywords: Lean; Metabolic syndrome; Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease; Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis; Nonobese; Nonoverweight.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Body Mass Index
  • Humans
  • Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease* / diagnosis
  • Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease* / epidemiology
  • Obesity / epidemiology
  • Prevalence
  • Risk Factors