Hepatic steatosis refers to the accumulation of fat within liver cells. This term generally denotes the presence of fat in the liver. Fatty liver disease can result from alcohol use disorder and excessive alcohol intake, as well as a collection of conditions known as nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). NAFLD is the most prevalent form of chronic liver disease in the United States, affecting approximately 80 to 100 million individuals. Several factors can increase the likelihood of developing NAFLD. Nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), a more severe type of NAFLD, involves liver inflammation that can progress to scarring and liver damage, potentially leading to liver cancer. Although fatty liver usually does not present symptoms, some individuals may experience fatigue, an enlarged liver, and pain in the upper right abdomen.
