What is the Origin of Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis?

The term was coined in the 1980s to distinguish a subset of patients with liver inflammation and fat accumulation who did not have a history of significant alcohol consumption. The recognition of NASH as a distinct clinical entity was crucial, linking it directly to the global epidemic of obesity and type 2 diabetes. It is now understood to be the hepatic manifestation of systemic metabolic dysfunction and a significant public health concern.

What is the Mechanism of Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis?

The pathogenesis follows a "multiple-hit" hypothesis, beginning with insulin resistance leading to increased lipolysis and free fatty acid delivery to the liver, causing steatosis. This initial fat accumulation sensitizes the liver to subsequent hits, such as oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, and the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines. These secondary factors trigger the hepatocyte injury and inflammation characteristic of steatohepatitis, accelerating liver damage.

Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis ∞ Area

Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis

Meaning

Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis (NASH) is a severe form of Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) characterized by liver inflammation and hepatocyte damage, in addition to the accumulation of fat (steatosis). This condition is a progressive metabolic disorder that can lead to hepatic fibrosis, cirrhosis, and ultimately liver failure or hepatocellular carcinoma. NASH is strongly associated with underlying metabolic syndrome, insulin resistance, and dysregulated hormonal signaling, making it a critical focus in metabolic health.