Fatty liver

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Fatty Liver

Fatty liver, also known as steatosis (pronounced stee-uh-TOH-sis), is a medical condition characterized by the accumulation of fat in the liver. The condition is reversible and can be managed with lifestyle changes and, in some cases, medication.

Etymology

The term "fatty liver" is derived from the English words "fatty", referring to fat, and "liver", the organ in which the condition occurs. "Steatosis" is derived from the Greek word "steatos", meaning "fat", and the suffix "-osis", which denotes a pathological condition.

Causes

Fatty liver can be caused by several factors, including alcohol consumption, obesity, diabetes, and certain medications. It can also be a result of poor diet and lack of exercise.

Symptoms

In many cases, fatty liver does not cause any noticeable symptoms. However, some people may experience fatigue, discomfort in the upper right abdomen, and unexplained weight loss.

Diagnosis

Fatty liver is often diagnosed during a routine blood test or ultrasound of the abdomen. If these tests indicate a fatty liver, further tests may be needed to determine the cause.

Treatment

Treatment for fatty liver focuses on addressing the underlying causes. This may involve lifestyle changes such as losing weight, eating a healthy diet, and exercising regularly. In some cases, medication may be prescribed to control cholesterol and blood sugar levels.

Related Terms

  • Alcoholic fatty liver disease: A type of fatty liver disease caused by excessive alcohol consumption.
  • Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD): A type of fatty liver disease that occurs in people who drink little to no alcohol.
  • Hepatitis: Inflammation of the liver that can be caused by a variety of factors, including viral infection and alcohol abuse.
  • Cirrhosis: A late stage of scarring (fibrosis) of the liver caused by many forms of liver diseases and conditions, such as hepatitis and chronic alcoholism.

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