Elevated LECT2 and PEDF in Pediatric MAFLD: Diagnostic Performance and Metabolic Correlations

Area of Science:

• Hepatology
• Pediatric Endocrinology
• Biomarker Discovery

Background:

• Metabolic-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) is a growing concern in children.
• Accurate diagnostic tools for pediatric MAFLD are crucial for early intervention.
• Hepatokines, such as LECT2 and PEDF, are implicated in metabolic dysfunction and liver injury.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the diagnostic value of serum LECT2 and PEDF for pediatric MAFLD.
• To assess the correlation of LECT2 and PEDF with metabolic and liver injury indices.
• To determine the diagnostic utility of LECT2 and PEDF, individually and in combination.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional study involving 198 children (78 MAFLD, 60 obese non-MAFLD, 60 controls).
• Serum LECT2 and PEDF levels were measured using standardized assays.
• Statistical analyses included group comparisons, correlation analyses, ROC curve analysis, and logistic regression.

Main Results:

• Serum LECT2 and PEDF levels showed stepwise elevations across groups (control < obese non-MAFLD < MAFLD).
• LECT2 and PEDF levels correlated significantly with BMI, HOMA-IR, ALT, and AST in MAFLD patients.
• The combined LECT2/PEDF panel demonstrated superior diagnostic accuracy for MAFLD versus controls (AUC=0.849) and moderate utility for MAFLD versus obese non-MAFLD (AUC=0.712).

Conclusions:

• LECT2 and PEDF are elevated in pediatric MAFLD and associated with metabolic dysfunction.
• The LECT2/PEDF combination effectively distinguishes MAFLD from healthy controls but shows moderate efficacy against simple obesity.
• The LECT2/PEDF panel is a promising tool for risk stratification in obese children, identifying those needing further MAFLD evaluation.