Effects of MAFLD defined by fatty liver index or ultrasonography on kidney function decline in the general population

Area of Science:

• Nephrology
• Hepatology
• Metabolic Diseases

Background:

• Metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) is a growing health concern.
• The impact of MAFLD on kidney function decline requires further investigation.
• Different diagnostic methods for MAFLD may yield varying clinical associations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine if MAFLD, defined by the fatty liver index (FLI), impacts kidney function decline.
• To assess if MAFLD diagnosed via ultrasonography (USG) shows a similar association with kidney function decline.
• To evaluate the relationship between FLI-defined MAFLD and rapid kidney function decline.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective cohort study utilizing de-identified health checkup data from 2002-2018.
• Exposure: MAFLD defined by FLI (primary) and USG (secondary).
• Outcome: 5-year slope of estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) and rapid decline (eGFR slope < -3 mL/min/1.73 m²/year).

Main Results:

• FLI-defined MAFLD was associated with a significantly larger decline in 5-year eGFR slope (beta = -0.11).
• Participants with FLI-defined MAFLD had a 1.33 times higher risk of rapid kidney function decline (OR = 1.33).
• USG-defined MAFLD demonstrated a less pronounced relationship with kidney function decline.

Conclusions:

• FLI-defined MAFLD is independently associated with accelerated kidney function decline.
• The diagnostic criteria for MAFLD influence its observed association with renal function.
• Early identification and management of FLI-defined MAFLD may be crucial for preserving kidney health.