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NONALCOHOLIC FATTY LIVER DISEASE IN OBESE AND OVERWEIGHT CHILDREN

Dr Ayesha Akhtar, Dr Iqra Aslam, Dr Hafiza Maham Shafiq

Childhood obesity is a worldwide health problem associated with an increase in the prevalence and severity of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is probably the most common cause of liver disease in the pediatric community. It is closely associated with obesity and insulin resistance. NAFLD may lead to non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). Confirmation of the diagnosis of NAFLD can usually be achieved by imaging studies; however, staging the disease requires a liver biopsy. Current treatment relies on weight loss and exercise, although various insulin-sensitizing agents, antioxidants and medications appear promising. The aim of this review is to summarize what is known about pediatric NAFLD in terms of prevalence, pathogenesis, diagnosis, histology and treatment.

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