Metabolic Liver Health Clinic

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a condition where harmful fat accumulates in the liver, causing damage over time. NAFLD is not caused by alcohol and occurs most frequently in patients with “metabolic disease” such as excess body weight, type II diabetes, high blood pressure or high cholesterol. In the United States, NAFLD affects more than 25% of adults and over half of all adults with type II diabetes. Despite being so common, very few people are aware that they have this chronic liver disease and have minimal to no symptoms.

Some patients with NAFLD will develop liver inflammation and injury, called NASH (non-alcoholic steatohepatitis) or scar tissue, called fibrosis. Over time, this liver injury can lead to cirrhosis (advanced liver scarring), liver cancer or need for liver transplant. Early recognition and treatment is the key to excellent outcomes. Because NAFLD affects more than just the liver, a team-based approach to care is more successful. The MLHC was created with this in mind: to provide exceptional, comprehensive care to patients with NAFLD.

Each patient seen in the MLHC is evaluated by a hepatology provider (liver specialist) to determine the most effective care plan. In addition to NAFLD and NASH care, the clinic provides care for patients with cirrhosis or liver cancer from NAFLD. Much of any necessary testing can be completed in the clinic, including labs and elastography (to measure liver scarring). Educational materials are reviewed, and a nutrition plan is discussed, using our nutrition services.

Some patients might qualify for behavioral health services or a medical or surgical weight loss program tailored to patients with NAFLD. Our close partnerships with endocrinology and transplant surgery allows us to connect patients with other services that could improve their overall health.