Laparoscopic cholecystectomy: Histopathological analysis of metabolic associated fatty liver disease and fibrosis

Introduction: Metabolic (dysfunction) associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) and cholelithiasis are highly prevalent and are associated with common risk factors such as obesity, hypertriglyceridemia, and fasting glucose levels; however, it is not clear whether cholelithiasis is associated with MAFLD or fibrosis.

Objective: To determine MAFLD severity and associated risk factors in patients diagnosed with cholelithiasis.

Materials and methods: Observational, cross-sectional and prolective study (from October 2018 to March 2020) of patients undergoing elective laparoscopic cholecystectomy with liver biopsy, excluding other causes of hepatic disease or significant alcohol consumption. MAFLD detection was based on histology using the Kleiner score and one of the following criteria: overweight/obesity, T2DM, or evidence of metabolic dysregulation. The AST to Platelet Ratio Index, the NAFLD Fibrosis Score, the fibrosis-4 index and the hepatic steatosis index were performed to assess the relationship of non-invasive hepatic scores with histopathology.

Results: 80 patients median age (interquartile range) was 42 (18) years, with a BMI of 27.9 (6.11) Kg/m². Of all patients, 58.8% had MAFLD, 78.7% were women, and 13.8% had the severe form (formerly named NASH). No substantial correlation between biochemical parameters and histopathological analysis of MAFLD and fibrosis was observed.

Conclusion: Because cholelithiasis and MAFLD are highly prevalent diseases, it is essential to conduct studies on the relationship between both pathologies. Currently, liver biopsy is the best diagnostic method since the predictive biochemical models did not show a substantial correlation to classify MAFLD. Its early detection is relevant since a considerable percentage of advanced fibrosis (8.7%) was found.