Fatty Liver Infiltration And Fatty Liver: What's The Difference?

Fatty liver is a pathological condition primarily caused by excessive fat accumulation in the liver. It can be diagnosed through imaging techniques such as ultrasound, CT scans, and MRI. When the liver undergoes significant fat transformation, it is referred to as fatty liver disease. The term "fatty liver infiltration," however, is not a recognized medical term in this context and is often misunderstood.

The liver plays a central role in metabolism, processing not only sugars and proteins but also fats. During the fat metabolism process, fats from other parts of the body are transported to the liver for breakdown and conversion into energy. This natural movement of fat from outside the liver to within is a normal metabolic function.

However, problems arise when there is an abnormal buildup of fat in the liver cells. This excessive accumulation can lead to non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) or other forms of pathological fat transformation. Importantly, fatty liver can result not only from increased fat intake or storage but also from a reduced ability of the liver to metabolize and transport fat effectively.

In some cases, especially among infants, inherited or genetic metabolic disorders can impair the liver's ability to process fats. This leads to a significant increase in fat accumulation within the liver, often diagnosed as a metabolic liver disease. These conditions typically require specialized care from a hepatology expert.

Understanding the distinction between normal fat movement in the body and abnormal fat buildup in the liver is crucial for early detection and treatment of liver-related metabolic disorders. Recognizing symptoms and seeking timely medical advice can prevent long-term liver damage.