Disease progression in a patient with nonalcoholic steatohepatitis
Journal
Journal of the Formosan Medical Association
Journal Volume
107
Journal Issue
10
Pages
816-821
Date Issued
2008
Abstract
Nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) is a severe form of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). The prevalence and clinical significance of NAFLD/NASH have been increasingly recognized in Western countries but much less known in Asian countries, including Taiwan. Here, we report the case of a 43-year-old man who had abnormal liver tests for 18 years. Retrospective evaluation of his initial clinical, laboratory and histologic findings indicated that the hepatic disorder was compatible with the diagnosis of NASH. Although his liver biochemical tests improved after taking lipid-lowering agents, a liver biopsy 17 years later demonstrated histologic progression of intralobular necroinflammation and perivenular fibrosis. These facts suggest that NASH, albeit mild and slowly progressive, indeed exists in Taiwan. After the control of chronic hepatitis B and C and westernization of the lifestyle in Taiwan, an increasing burden of NAFLD/NASH is anticipated and active prophylactic measures should be implemented. ? 2008 Elsevier & Formosan Medical Association.
SDGs
Other Subjects
alanine aminotransferase; antilipemic agent; aspartate aminotransferase; cholesterol; glucose; high density lipoprotein; low density lipoprotein; simvastatin; abnormal laboratory result; adult; alanine aminotransferase blood level; article; aspartate aminotransferase blood level; biochemistry; case report; cholesterol blood level; clinical examination; disease course; echography; glucose blood level; histopathology; human; human tissue; liver biopsy; liver fibrosis; liver function test; male; nonalcoholic fatty liver; Taiwan
Type
journal article