Non-invasive tests for alcohol-associated liver disease

Area of Science:

• Hepatology
• Clinical Biochemistry
• Public Health

Background:

• Alcohol consumption is a global health issue, significantly contributing to alcohol-associated liver disease (ALD).
• Early detection of ALD is challenging, with few individuals identified at initial stages.
• Non-invasive tests (NITs) are crucial for early identification and intervention in ALD.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review non-invasive tests (NITs) for early detection and monitoring of alcohol consumption.
• To evaluate NITs for screening, predicting ALD, and assessing liver complications.
• To explore future perspectives, opportunities, and challenges of NITs in ALD management.

Main Methods:

• Comprehensive literature review of non-invasive tests for alcohol consumption and ALD.
• Analysis of NIT applications in population-based stratification and clinical settings.
• Discussion of prognostic value of NITs in various ALD manifestations.

Main Results:

• NITs are essential for estimating alcohol intake and identifying individuals at risk of ALD.
• These tests are valuable in population screening and diagnosing liver disease stages.
• NITs aid in prognostic assessment and treatment decisions for alcohol-associated hepatitis and cirrhosis.

Conclusions:

• Non-invasive tests offer significant opportunities for early ALD detection and management.
• Further research and validation are needed to overcome challenges in widespread NIT implementation.
• NITs are pivotal in mitigating the global burden of alcohol-associated liver disease.