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MASLD AI 02:06 PM
June, 2025
In this episode, Gabriella McCarty, NP at Northshore Gastroenterology in Cleveland, Ohio, shares her deep clinical insights on the evolving landscape of MASLD (Metabolic Dysfunction–Associated Steatotic Liver Disease) and MASH (Metabolic Dysfunction–Associated Steatohepatitis). With over 26 years of experience in private practice, Gabriella explains that the majority of fatty liver cases she encounters are found incidentally—often during evaluations for unrelated GI issues like GERD or routine colon screenings. She discusses the updated nomenclature from NAFLD to MASLD and outlines the cardiometabolic risk factors that inform diagnosis, such as obesity, diabetes, hypertension, and dyslipidemia. Gabriella emphasizes the importance of non-invasive assessments like FibroScan, FIB-4, ELF testing, and, in select cases, liver biopsy or MR elastography for accurate fibrosis staging. She also highlights the challenges of discordant test results and shares practical strategies for follow-up and monitoring. With a strong focus on lifestyle modification—promoting a Mediterranean diet, targeted weight loss, regular exercise, and alcohol avoidance—this episode provides essential education for providers managing patients with fatty liver disease, even when it's not the primary reason for the visit.
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