The emerging problem of nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH)

Nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) is an increasing recognized form of chronic liver condition affecting both children and adults within the wide spectrum of fatty liver diseases. Recently NASH has been often associated with insulin resistance and has shown potential harmful evolution towards end-stage liver disease. Its incidence and prevalence is increasing, paralleling the rise in obesity and diabetes mellitus in Western Countries. Once all the other causes of persistent elevation of serum transaminase levels are excluded, the diagnosis of NASH can be only confirmed by liver histology. Non-invasive diagnostic tools, however, are awaited to allow the follow-up of patients at higher risk for major liver dysfunction. This article focus on current thoughts on the natural history and clinical presentation of NASH and describes current trends in the diagnosis and treatment of this emerging condition.