The Association Between Hepatic Steatosis and Age-Related Macular Degeneration: A Cross-Sectional Study

Purpose: The primary aim of this study is to estimate the association of hepatic steatosis in patients diagnosed with Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD). Methods: Patients with AMD and without secondary causes of chronic liver disease, alongside age- and sex-matched controls were recruited. Hepatic steatosis was determined via ultrasound imaging, and metabolic risk factors were collected using standardized surveys. Results: A total of 98 patients were recruited (49 cases, 49 controls). Hepatic steatosis was observed in 51.0% of the AMD group compared to 30.6% in controls, a statistically significant difference (χ2(1) = 4.224, p = 0.040). In multivariable models, dyslipidemia and diabetes were the strongest predictors, with association of steatosis attenuated but still significant (OR 2.36, 95% CI 1.03–5.40, p = 0.049). Conclusion: This study suggests an association between AMD and the prevalence of hepatic steatosis, after controlling for metabolic risk factors.