Fatty Liver Disease: Understanding the Risks of Moderate Steatosis and Effective Treatment Options

Moderate fatty liver disease is a significant condition that requires timely intervention. It is typically diagnosed through CT scans, where the liver-to-spleen CT ratio falls between 0.5 and 0.7. This stage often involves liver cell inflammation and necrosis, and blood tests may reveal abnormal liver function. Without proper treatment, moderate fatty liver can progress into more severe conditions such as fatty liver fibrosis and eventually cirrhosis.

If left untreated, the condition can lead to decompensated cirrhosis, which severely affects quality of life. Patients with moderate fatty liver are also more susceptible to liver damage from external factors. Concurrent viral or bacterial infections, excessive alcohol consumption, or the use of hepatotoxic drugs can potentially trigger liver failure.

There are two primary approaches to treating moderate fatty liver disease:

Pharmacological treatment is essential for managing liver function abnormalities. When liver enzymes are elevated, patients may be prescribed anti-inflammatory and enzyme-lowering medications such as diammonium glycyrrhizinate. If bilirubin levels are high, ursodeoxycholic acid or S-adenosylmethionine may be recommended. In cases of significantly elevated transaminases, corticosteroids might be used—but always under the supervision of a qualified physician.

Lifestyle modification is crucial for long-term recovery and liver health. The most common cause of moderate fatty liver is nutritional excess and overweight. Patients are strongly advised to manage their weight through dietary changes and increased physical activity. A low-sugar, low-fat diet rich in dietary fiber is recommended, while foods high in trans fats—such as fried foods, grilled meats, and artificial cream—should be avoided.

In addition to dietary adjustments, patients should reduce daily caloric intake by 500–1000 kcal and engage in at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise five times a week. Experts suggest aiming for a 5–10% reduction in body weight over the course of one year to significantly improve liver function and reduce fat accumulation.