Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease Program
Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease (MASLD) is a condition in which fat builds up in the liver. It is the most common liver disease in children in the United States, affecting 5 to 8 million children and adolescents. If left untreated, MASLD can lead to liver damage (by causing inflammation and scarring), cirrhosis and liver failure. MASLD was formerly known as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.
While not all causes of MASLD are known, the disease is associated with genetics, dietary intake and obesity. Currently, the most effective treatments include dietary changes and weight loss to reduce the fat build-up in the liver. In most cases, weight loss through diet, physical activity and lifestyle changes can reverse the damage caused by the disease. In rare instances, medication or surgery may be needed.
How we serve you
We offer a variety of specialized programs and clinical services to children with metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease and their families.
Conditions we treat
This program is dedicated to assessing and treating children with metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease.
Meet our team
Our medical team is led by a physician with special expertise in metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease and includes a dietician, nurses, activity specialists, care coordinator and others. Together, we support your family.
MASLD Program resources
Caring for a child with an illness can be overwhelming. To help you find answers and feel confident with the care you’re providing your child, we’ve created the following list of health resources.
What to expect
Once a child’s diagnosis of metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease is confirmed, our clinical team works with patients to help them make lifestyle changes to diet and physical activity that will reduce the levels of fat in the body. Our goal is to eliminate excess fat in the liver. We do this through supportive monthly meetings with different specialists:
- Appointment one: Patients meet with the doctor for evaluation and diagnosis. Together, they establish goals and set expectations.
- Appointment two: Patients work with the dietician to create a realistic, healthy eating plan to support their weight loss or fat reduction goals.
- Appointment three: The physical activity specialist helps each patient establish an appropriate exercise regimen.
- Appointment four: Patients meet with the doctor again to repeat lab tests, measure progress and evaluate the treatment plan.
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