Changing from NAFLD to MASLD: The new definition can more accurately identify individuals at higher risk for diabetes

We were intrigued by the recent name change from NAFLD (non-alcoholic fatty liver disease) to MASLD (metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease) [1] Rinella M.E. Lazarus J.V. Ratziu V. Francque S.M. Sanyal A.J. Kanwal F. et al. A multi-society Delphi consensus statement on new fatty liver disease nomenclature. J Hepatol. 2023; Google Scholar . This transition has garnered significant attention in metabolic research and clinical practice. It is not a mere name change but a choice made after a comprehensive understanding of the disease. As endocrinologists and researchers, we recognize the importance of accurate nomenclature in clinical settings and strive to enhance our understanding of the underlying pathophysiology. With this in mind, we conducted a study to compare different subtypes of SLD (steatotic liver disease) and examine the variations between the old and new nomenclature, focusing on their relationship with diabetes risk. A multi-society Delphi consensus statement on new fatty liver disease nomenclatureJournal of HepatologyPreviewThe principal limitations of the terms nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) are the reliance on exclusionary confounder terms and the use of potentially stigmatising language. This study set out to determine if content experts and patient advocates were in favour of a change in nomenclature and/or definition. Full-Text PDF Open Access