Description
Fatty liver disease, specifically non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), is a condition characterized by the buildup of excess fat in the liver that is not caused by alcohol consumption. If left untreated, NAFLD can progress to liver inflammation (non-alcoholic steatohepatitis or NASH), fibrosis, and potentially cirrhosis or liver failure.
Common Causes of NAFLD:
- Obesity or overweight
- Poor dietary habits (e.g., high intake of saturated fats, sugar, and processed foods)
- Lack of physical activity
- Type 2 diabetes or insulin resistance
- High cholesterol or triglycerides
- High blood pressure
- Certain medications (e.g., corticosteroids, antipsychotics)
Biomarkers Included in the Blood Panel:
This blood panel evaluates key biomarkers associated with liver health and metabolic risk factors that may contribute to the development or progression of fatty liver disease:
- FIB-4 Index:
- A composite biomarker score calculated using age, liver enzymes (AST and ALT), and platelet count. It helps estimate liver fibrosis risk and determine the need for further imaging or specialist referral.
- Hemoglobin A1C (HbA1C):
- A biomarker reflecting average blood glucose levels over the past 2–3 months. Elevated HbA1C may indicate prediabetes or type 2 diabetes—both major risk factors for fatty liver disease.
Instructions:
- Fasting is NOT required for this blood panel.
