Fatigue and Pruritus in Patients with Advanced Fibrosis Due to Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis: The Impact on Patient-Reported Outcomes

Assessment of fatigue and its impact in chronic liver disease

Patient-reported outcomes (PROs), such as health-related quality of life (HRQL), are important outcome measures for patients with chronic liver diseases (CLDs). Presence of cirrhosis and advanced liver disease have been associated with worsened HRQL and fatigue. On the other hand, some patients with earlier stages of CLD also experience fatigue, causing PRO impairment. Treatment for some CLDs may improve HRQL and, sometimes, levels of fatigue. We aimed to provide an in-depth expert review of concepts related to fatigue and HRQL in patients with primary biliary cholangitis, hepatitis C virus and MASLD (metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease). A panel of experts in fatigue and CLD reviewed and discussed the literature and collaborated to provide this expert review of fatigue in CLD. Herein, we review and report on the complexity of fatigue, highlighting that it is comprised of peripheral (neuromuscular failure, often in conjunction with submaximal cardiorespiratory function) and central (central nervous system dysfunction) causes. Fatigue and HRQL are measured using validated self-report instruments. Additionally, fatigue can be measured through objective tests (e.g. grip strength). Fatigue has deleterious effects on HRQL and one's ability to be physically active and socially engaged but does not always correlate with CLD severity. Treatments for hepatitis C virus and MASLD can improve levels of fatigue and HRQL, but current treatments for primary biliary cholangitis do not seem to affect levels of fatigue. We conclude that obtaining PRO data, including on HRQL and fatigue, is essential for determining the comprehensive burden of CLD and its potential treatments.

Review article: Evaluation and care of the critically ill patient with cirrhosis

BACKGROUND

The increase in prevalence of liver disease globally will lead to a substantial incremental burden on intensive care requirements. While liver transplantation offers a potential life-saving intervention, not all patients are eligible due to limitations such as organ availability, resource constraints, ongoing sepsis or multiple organ failures. Consequently, the focus of critical care of patients with advanced and decompensated cirrhosis turns to liver-centric intensive care protocols, to mitigate the high mortality in such patients.

AIM

Provide an updated and comprehensive understanding of cirrhosis management in critical care, and which includes emergency care, secondary organ failure management (mechanical ventilation, renal replacement therapy, haemodynamic support and intensive care nutrition), use of innovative liver support systems, infection control, liver transplantation and palliative and end-of life care.

METHODS

We conducted a structured bibliographic search on PubMed, sourcing articles published up to 31 March 2024, to cover topics addressed. We considered data from observational studies, recommendations of society guidelines, systematic reviews, and meta-analyses, randomised controlled trials, and incorporated our clinical expertise in liver critical care.

RESULTS

Critical care management of the patient with cirrhosis has evolved over time while mortality remains high despite aggressive management with liver transplantation serving as a crucial but not universally available resource.

CONCLUSIONS

Implementation of organ support therapies, intensive care protocols, nutrition, palliative care and end-of-life discussions and decisions are an integral part of critical care of the patient with cirrhosis. A multi-disciplinary approach towards critical care management is likely to yield better outcomes.

The protective effects of Ninjin'yoeito against liver steatosis/fibrosis in a non-alcoholic steatohepatitis model mouse

Non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) is a progressive fibrotic form of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Liver fibrosis leads to liver cancer and cirrhosis, and drug therapy for NASH remains lacking. Ninjin'yoeito (NYT) has shown antifibrotic effects in a model of liver fibrosis without steatosis but has not been studied for NASH. Therefore, we evaluated the efficacy of NYT in mice fed a choline-deficient, L-amino acid-defined, high-fat diet (CDAHFD) as a NASH model. Compared with the normal diet group, mice fed CDAHFD showed decreased body weight and increased white adipose tissue, liver weight, and triglyceride content in the liver. Furthermore, a substantial increase in the hepatic concentration of hydroxyproline, expression of α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), and transforming growth factor-β was observed in CDAHFD-fed mice. Masson's trichrome and Picro-Sirius red staining revealed a remarkable increase in collagen fiber compared with the normal diet group. Compared with mice that received CDAHFD alone, those supplemented with NYT exhibited reduced hepatic triglyceride and hydroxyproline levels and α-SMA expression. Additionally, compared with the group fed CDAHFD alone, the stained liver tissues of NYT-treated mice exhibited a reduction in Masson's trichrome- and Picro-Sirius red-positive areas. Locomotor activity was significantly reduced in the CDAHFD-fed group compared with the normal diet group. In the NYT-treated group, the CDAHFD-induced decrease in locomotor activity was significantly suppressed. The findings indicate that NYT inhibited fatty and fibrotic changes in the livers of NASH mice and alleviated the decrease in locomotor activity. Therefore, NYT may serve as a novel therapeutic approach for NASH.

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and coexisting depression, anxiety and/or stress in adults: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Background

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a common chronic liver disease, affecting 25-30% of the general population globally. The condition is even more prevalent in individuals with obesity and is frequently linked to the metabolic syndrome. Given the known associations between the metabolic syndrome and common mental health issues, it is likely that such a relationship also exists between NAFLD and mental health problems. However, studies in this field remain limited. Accordingly, the aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to explore the prevalence of one or more common mental health conditions (i.e., depression, anxiety, and/or stress) in adults with NAFLD.

Methods

PubMed, EBSCOhost, ProQuest, Ovid, Web of Science, and Scopus were searched in order to identify studies reporting the prevalence of depression, anxiety, and/or stress among adults with NAFLD. A random-effects model was utilized to calculate the pooled prevalence and confidence intervals for depression, anxiety and stress.

Results

In total, 31 studies were eligible for inclusion, involving 2,126,593 adults with NAFLD. Meta-analyses yielded a pooled prevalence of 26.3% (95% CI: 19.2 to 34) for depression, 37.2% (95% CI: 21.6 to 54.3%) for anxiety, and 51.4% (95% CI: 5.5 to 95.8%) for stress among adults with NAFLD.

Conclusion

The present findings suggest a high prevalence of mental health morbidity among adults with NAFLD. Given the related public health impact, this finding should prompt further research to investigate such associations and elucidate potential associations between NAFLD and mental health morbidity, exploring potential shared underlying pathophysiologic mechanisms.

Systematic review registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/, identifier CRD42021288934.

Understanding the Burden of Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease: Time for Action

The prevalence of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in the United States is 38%, having increased by 50% within the past 3 decades. The estimated NAFLD prevalence among people with type 2 diabetes is 55-70%. The presence of type 2 diabetes is associated with a higher likelihood of progression of NAFLD to fibrosis development, liver transplant, and death. Cardiovascular disease is the main cause of mortality among people with NAFLD, and the risk of death is significantly higher in people with both NAFLD and type 2 diabetes. NAFLD carries high patient and economic burdens but low awareness among both the general public and health care providers. This article reviews the epidemiology of NAFLD and discusses the need for appropriate risk stratification, referral for specialty care, management of cardiometabolic risk factors, and treatment of the disease. The authors present a call to action to raise awareness of NAFLD and address its increasing burden in a systematic and efficient manner.

Estimating utility values for non-alcoholic steatohepatitis health states: a discrete choice experiment

Background: This study estimated utility values for non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). Previous studies have assumed that health-related quality of life does not vary between the early stages of NASH. Materials & Methods: Discrete choice experiment (DCE) surveys estimated the value of avoiding fibrosis progression. Patients also completed the EQ-5D-5L. Marginal rates of substitution estimated utility change associated with fibrosis progression. Results: DCE surveys were completed by the UK general public (n = 520) and patients with NASH (n = 154). The utility decline between fibrosis stages F1 and F4 decompensated was between -0.521 to -0.646 (depending on method). Conclusion: Three methods were used to estimate utilities for NASH, each one showed sensitivity to advancing fibrosis, including in the early stages, which is often considered asymptomatic.

Health-related Quality of Life in Patients With Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease: A Prospective Multi-center UK Study

BACKGROUND & AIMS

It is unclear whether health-related quality of life (HRQoL) is impaired in patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) without advanced fibrosis and how this compares with the general population. We aimed to assess HRQoL in patients with NAFLD in comparison to the general population and any associations of fibrosis severity and metabolic comorbidities with impairments in HRQoL.

METHODS

We prospectively enrolled 513 consecutive patients with NAFLD who completed the EuroQol 5-dimensional questionnaire (EQ-5D) and Chronic Liver Disease Questionnaires (CLDQ). Demographic and clinical information, liver biopsy results, and/or liver stiffness (LS) by transient elastography were recorded. A general population sub-cohort of the Health Survey for England 2018 was used as a comparator (n = 5483), and a 1:1 propensity-score (PS) matching was performed, according to age, sex, body mass index, and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).

RESULTS

EQ-5D-5L utility was significantly lower in 466 PS-matched patients with NAFLD compared with PS-matched controls (0.77 ± 0.27 vs 0.84 ± 0.19; P < .001), even in those without advanced fibrosis (F ≤2 or LS <8kPa) (0.80 ± 0.24 vs 0.84 ± 0.19; P = .024). HRQoL measures (EQ-5D-5L, EQ-VAS, CLDQ) did not differ between patients with NAFLD with and without advanced fibrosis. LS was independently associated with lower EQ-5D-5L in all patients with NAFLD but not in those without advanced fibrosis. In the latter, lower EQ-5D-5L was associated with female sex, T2DM, and depression.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with NAFLD, even those without advanced fibrosis, have worse HRQoL compared with the general population. In patients with NAFLD without advanced fibrosis, HRQoL is independently associated with non-liver comorbidities but not LS. Multi-disciplinary management is therefore required in NAFLD, irrespective of fibrosis severity.

Lifestyle interventions in nonalcoholic fatty liver disease

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a dynamic chronic liver disease that develops in close association with metabolic irregularities. Between 2016 and 2019, the global prevalence among adults was reported as 38% and among children and adolescents it was about 10%. NAFLD can be progressive and is associated with increased mortality from cardiovascular disease, extrahepatic cancers and liver complications. Despite these numerous adverse outcomes, no pharmacological treatments currently exist to treat nonalcoholic steatohepatitis, the progressive form of NAFLD. Therefore, the main treatment is the pursuit of a healthy lifestyle for both children and adults, which includes a diet rich in fruits, nuts, seeds, whole grains, fish and chicken and avoiding overconsumption of ultra-processed food, red meat, sugar-sweetened beverages and foods cooked at high heat. Physical activity at a level where one can talk but not sing is also recommended, including leisure-time activities and structured exercise. Avoidance of smoking and alcohol is also recommended. Policy-makers, community and school leaders need to work together to make their environments healthy by developing walkable and safe spaces with food stores stocked with culturally appropriate and healthy food items at affordable prices as well as providing age-appropriate and safe play areas in both schools and neighbourhoods.

The burden of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is rapidly growing in every region of the world from 1990 to 2019

BACKGROUND

The latest meta-analyses suggest NAFLD is increasing globally. Its limitations may preclude accurate estimates. We evaluated the global NAFLD burden and its' trends in prevalence and NAFLD liver-related mortality (LRM) by sex, age, region, and country over the past 3 decades using data from the Global Burden of Disease (GBD) 2019 study.

METHODS

Crude and age-standardized NAFLD prevalence and NAFLD-LRM rates were obtained for all-age individuals with NAFLD from 204 countries/territories between 1990 and 2019. Joinpoint trend analysis assessed time trends. Weighted average of the annual percent change (APC) over the period 1990-2019 and 2010-2019 were reported.

RESULTS

All-age (children and adults) crude global NAFLD prevalence increased:10.5% (561 million)-16.0% (1,236 million); an APC increase: + 1.47% (95% CI, 1.44%, 1.50%). Among adults (+20 y), crude NAFLD prevalence increased (1990: 17.6%, 2019:23.4%; APC: + 1.00%, 95% CI: 0.97%, 1.02%). In all-age groups, the crude NAFLD-LRM rate (per 100,000) increased (1990: 1.75%, 2019: 2.18%; APC: + 0.77% (95% CI, 0.70%, 0.84%). By Joinpoint analysis, from 2010 to 2019, worsening all-age trends in NAFLD prevalence and LRM were observed among 202 and 167 countries, respectively. In 2019, there were 1.24 billion NAFLD prevalent cases and 168,969 associated deaths; Asia regions accounted for 57.2% of all-age prevalent cases and 46.2% of all-age NAFLD-LRM. The highest all-age crude NAFLD prevalence rate was the Middle East and North Africa (LRM 26.5%); the highest all-age crude NAFLD-LRM rate was Central Latin America (5.90 per 100,000).

CONCLUSIONS

NAFLD is increasing globally in all-age groups-over 80% of countries experienced an increase in NAFLD and NAFLD-LRM. These data have important policy implications for affected countries and for global health.

Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease and Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatohepatitis: The Patient and Physician Perspective

Diagnosing and managing metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) remains a major challenge in primary care due to lack of agreement on diagnostic tools, difficulty in identifying symptoms and determining their cause, absence of approved pharmacological treatments, and limited awareness of the disease. However, prompt diagnosis and management are critical to preventing MASLD from progressing to more severe forms of liver disease. This highlights the need to raise awareness and improve understanding of MASLD among both patients and physicians. The patient perspective is invaluable to advancing our knowledge of this disease and how to manage it, as their perspectives have led to the growing recognition that patients experience subtle symptoms and that patient-reported outcomes should be incorporated into drug development. This review and expert opinion examine MASLD and metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis from the patient and physician perspective from pre-diagnosis to diagnosis and early care, through to progression to advanced liver damage. Specifically, the paper dives into the issues patients and physicians experience, and, in turn, what is required to improve diagnosis and management, including tips and tools to empower patients and physicians dealing with MASLD.

The Global Burden of Liver Disease

Chronic liver disease (CLD) and its associated complications (cirrhosis and liver cancer) cause significant mortality, morbidity, and economic burden. Published data from the World Health Organization and/or the Global Burden of Disease show that the burden of CLD is large and increasing, primarily owing to the increasing burden of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease and alcohol-related liver disease (ALD). Middle Eastern, Northern African, and Asian regions of the globe are most affected by hepatitis B and hepatitis C virus. Furthermore, Middle Eastern and North African regions also are affected by nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, and Eastern European, West African, and Central Asian regions are affected by ALD. In this context, the rate of increase for cirrhosis is highest in the Middle East, as well as in middle high and high sociodemographic index (SDI) regions. On the other hand, the highest SDI countries are experiencing increasing rates of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Assessing HCC burden based on country and etiology shows that China, Korea, India, Japan, and Thailand have the highest hepatitis B virus-related HCC cases, while China, Japan, and the United States have the highest hepatitis C virus-related HCC cases. Additionally, the United States has the highest ALD-related HCC cases, while India, the United States, and Thailand have the highest nonalcoholic steatohepatitis-related HCC cases. Although the burden of CLD is increasing globally, regions of the world are impacted differently as a result of a number of sociodemographic factors.

Noninvasive Tests Used in Risk Stratification of Patients with Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease

As the prevalence of obesity and type 2 diabetes increases around the world, the prevalence of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) has grown proportionately. Although most patients with NAFLD do not experience progressive liver disease, about 15% to 20% of those with nonalcoholic steatohepatitis can and do progress. Because liver biopsy's role in NAFLD has become increasingly limited, efforts have been undertaken to develop non-invasive tests (NITs) to help identify patients at high risk of progression. The following article discusses the NITs that are available to determine the presence of NAFLD as well as high-risk NAFLD.

Economic Burden and Patient-Reported Outcomes of Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease

In addition to adverse clinical outcomes such as liver-related morbidity and mortality, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is associated with a substantial public health and economic burden and could also potentially impair health-related quality of life and other patient-reported outcomes. The disease also affects multiple aspects of patients' quality of life which are the most pronounced in physical health-related and fatigue domains as well as work productivity, and get more severe in patients with advanced liver disease or with non-hepatic comorbidities. The economic burden of NAFLD is substantial and is increasing, with the highest costs in those with advanced disease.

The Potential Role of Fatigue in Identifying Patients With NASH and Advanced Fibrosis Who Experience Disease Progression

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Fatigue is common in patients with advanced liver disease. We investigated fatigue and clinical outcomes among patients with advanced nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH).

METHODS

In this study, patients with biopsy confirmed NASH and bridging fibrosis (F3) or compensated cirrhosis (F4) were followed for up to 2 years. The Chronic Liver Disease Questionnaire for Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis (CLDQ-NASH) fatigue domain at baseline (range, 1-7; lower score indicating worse fatigue) quantified fatigue. The Cox proportional hazards model was used to study time to liver-related clinical events (progression to histologic cirrhosis or hepatic decompensation in F3, hepatic decompensation in F4).

RESULTS

Of the 1679 NASH patients with fibrosis, 802 had F3 and 877 had F4 (58 ± 9 years of age, 40% male, 74% type 2 diabetes). During median follow-up of 16 months (interquartile range, 14-18), 15% (n = 123) of NASH F3 patients experienced liver-related events and 3.5% (n = 31) of NASH F4 patients experienced hepatic decompensation. Mean baseline CLDQ-NASH fatigue score in F3 patients was 4.77 ± 1.36; NASH F3 patients who experienced liver-related events had lower baseline scores: 4.47 ± 1.36 vs 4.83 ± 1.35 (P = .0091). The mean fatigue score in F4 was 4.56 ± 1.44; these scores were lower in patients who decompensated in follow-up: 3.74 ± 1.31 vs 4.59 ± 1.43 (P = .0011). The association of lower fatigue scores and risk of liver-related or decompensation events was significant after adjustment for confounders (adjusted hazard ratio per 1 point in fatigue score in F3, 0.85; 95% confidence interval, 0.74-0.97; P = .02; adjusted hazard ratio in F4, 0.62; 95% confidence interval, 0.48-0.81; P = .0004).

CONCLUSION

Worse fatigue at baseline is associated with a higher risk of adverse clinical events in patients with NASH-related advanced fibrosis and cirrhosis.

Safety and tolerability of obeticholic acid in chronic liver disease: a pooled analysis of 1878 individuals

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Obeticholic acid (OCA) is a farnesoid X receptor agonist used in primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) treatment. Recent studies have expanded OCA use for NASH treatment and results from phase 3 clinical trial have shown beneficial reduction of ≥1 stage of fibrosis with no NASH worsening. However, safety concerns still preside, thus we systematically examine the safety profile of OCA in chronic liver disease.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A search was conducted in Medline and Embase databases for OCA randomized controlled trials in chronic liver disease. Binary events were pooled with Paule-Mandel random effects model and proportional events were examined in a generalized linear mixed model with Clopper-Pearson intervals.

RESULTS

A total of 8 studies and 1878 patients were analyzed. There was a 75% [risk ratio (RR): 1.75, 95% CI: 1.43-2.15, p < 0.01] increased pruritis risk. OCA increased constipation incidence (RR: 1.88, 95% CI: 1.45-2.43, p < 0.01), decreased diarrhea (RR: 0.62, 95% CI: 0.50-0.77, p < 0.01), and increased development of hyperlipidemia (RR: 2.69, 95% CI: 1.85-3.92, p < 0.01) relative to placebo. Sensitivity analysis in NASH-only studies found a dose-dependent effect with pruritis which increases to RR: 3.07 (95% CI: 1.74-5.41) at 25 mg. However, up to 9.98% (95% CI: 5.01%-18.89%) of NAFLD patients with placebo similarly experience pruritis events. Overall, 16.55% (95% CI: 6.47%-36.24%) of patients with NAFLD on OCA experienced pruritis. There was no significant increase in cardiovascular events.

CONCLUSIONS

OCA may represent the first pharmacological treatment approved for NASH. However, pruritis, constipation, diarrhea, and hyperlipidemia were major events with evident dose-dependent effect that affect tolerability in NASH. Future long-term studies for longitudinal safety events are required.

A practical use of noninvasive tests in clinical practice to identify high-risk patients with nonalcoholic steatohepatitis

BACKGROUND

Patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) with type 2 diabetes (T2D) or other components of metabolic syndrome are at high risk for disease progression. We proposed an algorithm to identify high-risk NAFLD patients in clinical practice using noninvasive tests (NITs).

METHODS

Evidence about risk stratification of NAFLD using validated NITs was reviewed by a panel of NASH Experts. Using the most recent evidence regarding the performance of NITs and their application in clinical practice were used to develop an easy-to-use algorithm for risk stratification of NAFLD patients seen in primary care, endocrinology and gastroenterology practices.

RESULTS

The proposed algorithm uses a three-step process to identify NAFLD patients who are potentially at high risk for adverse outcomes. The first step is to use clinical data to identify most patients who are at risk for having potentially progressive NAFLD (e.g. having T2D or multiple components of metabolic syndrome). The second step is to calculate the FIB-4 score as a NIT that can further risk stratifying individuals who are at low risk for progressive liver disease and can be managed by their primary healthcare providers to manage their cardiometabolic comorbidities. The third step is to use second-line NITs (transient elastography or enhanced liver fibrosis tests) to identify those who at high risk for progressive liver disease and should be considered for specially care by providers with NASH expertise.

CONCLUSIONS

The use of this simple clinical algorithm can identify and assist in managing patients with NAFLD at high risk for adverse outcomes.

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease and non-liver comorbidities

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a chronic liver disease characterized by excess fat accumulation in the liver. It is closely associated with metabolic syndrome, and patients with NAFLD often have comorbidities such as obesity, type 2 diabetes mellitus, and dyslipidemia. In addition to liver-related complications, NAFLD has been associated with a range of non-liver comorbidities, including cardiovascular disease, chronic kidney disease, and sleep apnea. Cardiovascular disease is the most common cause of mortality in patients with NAFLD, and patients with NAFLD have a higher risk of developing cardiovascular disease than the general population. Chronic kidney disease is also more common in patients with NAFLD, and the severity of NAFLD is associated with a higher risk of developing chronic kidney disease. Sleep apnea, a disorder characterized by breathing interruptions during sleep, is also more common in patients with NAFLD and is associated with the severity of NAFLD. The presence of non-liver comorbidities in patients with NAFLD has important implications for the management of this disease. Treatment of comorbidities such as obesity, type 2 diabetes mellitus, and dyslipidemia may improve liver-related outcomes in patients with NAFLD. Moreover, treatment of non-liver comorbidities may also improve overall health outcomes in patients with NAFLD. Therefore, clinicians should be aware of the potential for non-liver comorbidities in patients with NAFLD and should consider the management of these comorbidities as part of the overall management of this disease.

Impairment of patient-reported outcomes among patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease: a registry-based study

BACKGROUND

Patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and more advanced fibrosis tend to have more impairment in their health-related quality of life and other patient-reported outcomes (PROs).

AIM

To assess the association of PROs with select non-invasive tests (NITs) for fibrosis including FAST, Agile 3+ and Agile 4 scores METHODS: We enrolled patients with an established diagnosis of NAFLD who were seen in a tertiary care clinic into the NAFLD/NASH Registry. The FAST, Agile 3+ and Agile 4 scores were calculated using liver stiffness measurements by transient elastography and laboratory parameters. PROs were assessed using FACIT-F, CLDQ-NASH and WPAI instruments (total of 17 domain and summary scores).

RESULTS

There were 1509 patients with NAFLD (mean age: 49 ± 11 years, 50% men, 41% employed, 30% advanced fibrosis and 20% cirrhosis). The mean FAST, Agile 3+ and Agile 4 scores were 0.39 ± 0.26, 0.35 ± 0.31 and 0.12 ± 0.23, respectively. Subjects with lower FAST, Agile 3+ and Agile 4 scores had the highest scores in select domains of FACIT-F, CLDQ-NASH and WPAI (p < 0.05 in comparison to subjects with elevated or high-risk NIT scores). Correlations with continuous NITs were significantly negative for Emotional and Functional well-being (FACIT-F), Activity/energy, Systemic symptoms, Worry and total scores (CLDQ-NASH), and Activity of WPAI (p < 0.05); the strongest was for Worry (CLDQ-NASH) with FAST (R = -0.17, p < 0.0001). The PRO scores of patients with NAFLD were lower than those of matched patients with chronic hepatitis B (p < 0.05 for 9/17 domain and summary scores).

CONCLUSION

Patients with NAFLD and high FAST, Agile 3+ or Agile 4 scores experience impairment of health-related quality of life.

The burden of non-alcoholic steatohepatitis: A systematic review of health-related quality of life and patient-reported outcomes

Background & Aims

Non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) is associated with increased mortality and a high clinical burden. NASH adversely impacts patients' health-related quality of life (HRQoL), but published data on the humanistic burden of disease are limited. This review aimed to summarise and critically evaluate studies reporting HRQoL or patient-reported outcomes (PROs) in populations with NASH and identify key gaps for further research.

Methods

Medline, EMBASE, the Cochrane Library and PsycINFO were searched for English-language publications published from 2010 to 2021 that reported HRQoL/PRO outcomes of a population or subpopulation with NASH.

Results

Twenty-five publications covering 23 unique studies were identified. Overall, the data showed a substantial impact of NASH on HRQoL, particularly in terms of physical functioning and fatigue, with deterioration of physical and mental health as NASH progresses. Prevalent symptoms, including fatigue, abdominal pain, anxiety/depression, cognition problems, and poor sleep quality, adversely impact patients' ability to work and perform activities of daily living and the quality of relationships. However, some patients fail to attribute symptoms to their disease because of a lack of patient awareness and education. NASH is associated with high rates of comorbidities such as obesity and type 2 diabetes, which contribute to reduced HRQoL. Studies were heterogeneous in terms of diagnostic methods, population, outcomes, follow-up time, and measures of HRQoL/utility. Most studies were rated 'moderate' at quality assessment, and all evaluable studies had inadequate control of confounders.

Conclusions

NASH is associated with a significant HRQoL burden that begins early in the disease course and increases with disease progression. More robust studies are needed to better understand the humanistic burden of NASH, with adequate adjustment for confounders that could influence outcomes.

Lay summary

Non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) has a significant impact on quality of life, with individuals experiencing worse physical and mental health compared with the general population. NASH and its symptoms, which include tiredness, stomach pain, anxiety, depression, poor focus and memory, and impaired sleep, affect individuals' relationships and ability to work and perform day-to-day tasks. However, not all patients are aware that their symptoms may be related to NASH. Patients would benefit from more education on their disease, and the importance of good social networks for patient health and well-being should be reinforced. More studies are needed to better understand the patient burden of NASH.

Safety and efficacy of combination therapy with semaglutide, cilofexor and firsocostat in patients with non-alcoholic steatohepatitis: A randomised, open-label phase II trial

BACKGROUND & AIMS

Non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) is associated with increased risk of liver-related and cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. Given the complex pathophysiology of NASH, combining therapies with complementary mechanisms may be beneficial. This trial evaluated the safety and efficacy of semaglutide, a glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist, alone and in combination with the farnesoid X receptor agonist cilofexor and/or the acetyl-coenzyme A carboxylase inhibitor firsocostat in patients with NASH.

METHODS

This was a phase II, open-label, proof-of-concept trial in which patients with NASH (F2-F3 on biopsy, or MRI-proton density fat fraction [MRI-PDFF] ≥10% and liver stiffness by transient elastography ≥7 kPa) were randomised to 24 weeks' treatment with semaglutide 2.4 mg once weekly as monotherapy or combined with once-daily cilofexor (30 or 100 mg) and/or once-daily firsocostat 20 mg. The primary endpoint was safety. All efficacy endpoints were exploratory.

RESULTS

A total of 108 patients were randomised to semaglutide (n = 21), semaglutide plus cilofexor 30 mg (n = 22), semaglutide plus cilofexor 100 mg (n = 22), semaglutide plus firsocostat (n = 22) or semaglutide, cilofexor 30 mg and firsocostat (n = 21). Treatments were well tolerated - the incidence of adverse events was similar across groups (73-90%) and most events were gastrointestinal in nature. Despite similar weight loss (7-10%), compared with semaglutide monotherapy, combinations resulted in greater improvements in liver steatosis measured by MRI-PDFF (least-squares mean of absolute changes: -9.8 to -11.0% vs. -8.0%), liver biochemistry, and non-invasive tests of fibrosis.

CONCLUSIONS

In patients with mild-to-moderate fibrosis due to NASH, semaglutide with firsocostat and/or cilofexor was generally well tolerated. In exploratory efficacy analyses, treatment resulted in additional improvements in liver steatosis and biochemistry vs. semaglutide alone. Given this was a small-scale open-label trial, double-blind placebo-controlled trials with adequate patient numbers are warranted to assess the efficacy and safety of these combinations in NASH.

CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

NCT03987074.

LAY SUMMARY

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and its more severe form, non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), are serious liver conditions that worsen over time if untreated. The reasons people develop NASH are complex and combining therapies that target different aspects of the disease may be more helpful than using single treatments. This trial showed that the use of 3 different types of drugs, namely semaglutide, cilofexor and firsocostat, in combination was safe and may offer additional benefits over treatment with semaglutide alone.

Chronic liver disease questionnaire to manage patients with chronic liver diseases

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Although patients with chronic liver disease (CLD) usually show few symptoms, they exhibit decreased health-related QOL (HRQOL) with occurrence complications including hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Health-related QOL is an important indicator in the management of CLD. The Chronic Liver Disease Questionnaire (CLDQ) was established as a tool for assessment of HRQOL. In this study, we evaluate its usefulness for the management of daily clinical practice.

METHODS

Patients (N = 190, median age 70 years old) treated between 2016 and 2019 were registered and prospectively followed-up with annual CLDQ. Associations of liver function and development of factors for admission or death were evaluated.

RESULTS

Of the 190 patients registered, median age 70 years old, 140 were Child-A, 121 were Fib-4 index >2.67 and showed 80 HCC. All 6 domains including Systemic Symptoms (SS) were negatively correlated with Child-Pugh score more than with albumin-bilirubin score and Fib-4 index. A hundred four admission events and 49 deaths were found during observation period, and median event-free survival was 34.3 months. Treatment for HCC was the most frequent cause of admission, and 37 liver-related deaths were found. Systemic Symptoms score 2 years after registration was decreased in both HCC- and non-HCC cohort. Systemic Symptoms decreased and SS < 4 might be predictive for event occurrence.

CONCLUSIONS

CLDQ is useful to assess HRQOL in patients with CLD and is well correlated with liver function especially Child-Pugh. Chronic Liver Disease Questionnaire might be useful to predict the prognosis of CLD and can be a tool of management in clinical practice.

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease: lifestyle and quality of life

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a metabolic disorder whose current rapidly expanding prevalence is causing it to develop into a major global health concern. NAFLD is closely linked to the modern, unhealthy lifestyle. The Western diet, characterized by excessive energy intake, frequent consumption of red meat, processed meat and foods, soft drinks, and sugar-sweetened beverages (SSBs), irregular meal distribution throughout the day, and unhealthy ways of cooking, predisposes to development of NAFLD. Low levels of physical activity and prolonged sedentary time are additional lifestyle risk factors for NAFLD. Given the present lack of effective pharmacological treatment, lifestyle modifications are regarded as the cornerstone of NAFLD management. Reducing daily calorie intake together with following the Mediterranean diet (MD) is an increasingly accepted approach. Furthermore, increasing the level of physical activity and limiting sedentary behavior are additional measures proposed to improve the outcomes of the disease. Apart from being affected by lifestyle, NAFLD may also affect patients' quality of life (QoL), mostly in the domain of physical function. In this regard, while the early and more benign form of the disease, i.e., simple hepatic steatosis, may not affect QoL, there is evidence, though conflicting, of the impact of nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) on this index, with, however, most studies showing that QoL is consistently affected in advanced disease, i.e., hepatic fibrosis, cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma. Considering all the above, appropriate management of lifestyle is likely to attenuate the severity of the disease and improve the QoL of NAFLD patients.

Prevalence of Pruritus and Association with Anxiety and Depression in Patients with Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease

Patient-reported outcomes are important in nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Pruritus is of special interest for evolving therapies with farnesoid X receptor (FXR) agonists. The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence of pruritus in a real-life NAFLD cohort and analyze associations with anxiety and depression. Pruritus was assessed using a visual analogue- (VAS) and 5-D itch-scale (5-D). Anxiety and depression were evaluated by Beck’s-Depression-Inventory (BDI) and the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS-A, HADS-D). An optimal logistic regression model was found with a stepwise procedure to investigate variables associated with pruritus. In total, 123 NAFLD patients were recruited. VAS and 5-D were highly correlated (Spearman’s correlation coefficient 0.89). Moderate/severe pruritus was reported in 19% (VAS) and 21% (5-D) of patients. Anxiety and depression were present in 12% and 4% (HADS-A and HADS-D, respectively) and 12% (BDI) of cases. There was a significant association between VAS and BDI (p = 0.019). The final multivariate model for 5-D included diabetes mellitus (OR 4.51; p = 0.01), BDI (OR 5.98; p = 0.024), and HADS-A (OR 7.75; p = 0.011). One-fifth of NAFLD patients reported moderate or severe pruritus. 5-D was significantly associated with diabetes mellitus, depression, and anxiety. These findings should be tested in larger populations and considered in candidates for treatment with FXR agonists.

Fatigue in Cirrhosis

Fatigue is a common symptom in patients with liver disease and has a significant impact on the health-related quality of life (HR-QoL). Its pathogenesis is poorly understood and is considered multifactorial. The liver is central in the pathogenesis of fatigue because it uniquely regulates much of the production, storage, and release of substrate for energy generation. Also, the liver "cross-talks" with the key organs that are responsible for this symptom complex-gut, skeletal muscle, and brain. Fatigue can have both peripheral (i.e., neuromuscular) and central (i.e., resulting from changes in neurotransmission within the brain) components. The treatment strategies for the management of fatigue are behavioral changes and pharmacotherapy, along with dietetic intervention and exercise. However, there is no consensus on management strategies for fatigue in patients with liver disease. This article gives an overview of fatigue as a concept, its pathophysiology, measures to evaluate fatigue in patients with liver disease, the impact of fatigue on chronic liver disease, assessment of fatigue in an appropriate clinical setting, and various interventions to manage fatigue.

Fatty Liver through the Ages- Non-Alcoholic Steatohepatitis (NASH)

BACKGROUND

The global epidemic of obesity and type 2 diabetes mellitus is the main driver of the growing global prevalence of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). We aimed to review the current literature on NAFLD and NASH as it impacts children and adults.

METHODS

We performed a literature search on fatty liver specifically non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) among children and adults.

RESULTS

The prevalence of NAFLD in children ranges from 8%-12% while the prevalence in adults ranges 25%-48%. The prevalence of NASH among children with NAFLD is 23% while it ranges from 13% to 65% in the adults. There are similar risk factors for NAFLD among children and adults. However, in children, the diagnostic tests in the studies of NAFLD are limited to elevation of ALT level or a liver biopsy. In adults, additional diagnostic modalities, including non-invasive tests (NITs), have been used. From the spectrum of NAFLD, those with NASH are predominantly at risk of progressive liver disease to cirrhosis and liver-related mortality. NAFLD is associated with impairment of health-related quality of life and substantial economic burden.

CONCLUSION

The comprehensive burden (clinical, HRQL and economic) of NAFLD is high and increasing.

Role of FXR in Bile Acid and Metabolic Homeostasis in NASH: Pathogenetic Concepts and Therapeutic Opportunities

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) has become the most prevalent cause of liver disease, increasingly contributing to the burden of liver transplantation. In search for effective treatments, novel strategies addressing metabolic dysregulation, inflammation, and fibrosis are continuously emerging. Disturbed bile acid (BA) homeostasis and microcholestasis via hepatocellular retention of potentially toxic BAs may be an underappreciated factor in the pathogenesis of NAFLD and nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) as its progressive variant. In addition to their detergent properties, BAs act as signaling molecules regulating cellular homeostasis through interaction with BA receptors such as the Farnesoid X receptor (FXR). Apart from being a key regulator of BA metabolism and enterohepatic circulation, FXR regulates metabolic homeostasis and has immune-modulatory effects, making it an attractive therapeutic target in NAFLD/NASH. In this review, the molecular basis and therapeutic potential of targeting FXR with a specific focus on restoring BA and metabolic homeostasis in NASH is summarized.

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease: A patient guideline

This patient guideline is intended for all patients at risk of or living with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). NAFLD is the most frequent chronic liver disease worldwide and comes with a high disease burden. Yet, there is a lot of unawareness. Furthermore, many aspects of the disease are still to be unravelled, which has an important impact on the information that is given (or not) to patients. Its management requires a close interaction between patients and their many healthcare providers. It is important for patients to develop a full understanding of NAFLD in order to enable them to take an active role in their disease management. This guide summarises the current knowledge relevant to NAFLD and its management. It has been developed by patients, patient representatives, clinicians and scientists and is based on current scientific recommendations, intended to support patients in making informed decisions.

Preparing for the NASH epidemic: A call to action

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) are common conditions with a rising burden. Yet there are significant management gaps between clinical guidelines and practice in patients with NAFLD and NASH. Further, there is no single global guiding strategy for the management of NAFLD and NASH. The American Gastroenterological Association, in collaboration with 7 professional associations, convened an international conference comprising 32 experts in gastroenterology, hepatology, endocrinology, and primary care providers from the United States, Europe, Asia, and Australia. Conference content was informed by the results of a national NASH Needs Assessment Survey. The participants reviewed and discussed published literature on global burden, screening, risk stratification, diagnosis, and management of individuals with NAFLD, including those with NASH. Participants identified promising approaches for clinical practice and prepared a comprehensive, unified strategy for primary care providers and relevant specialists encompassing the full spectrum of NAFLD/NASH care. They also identified specific high-yield targets for clinical research and called for a unified, international public health response to NAFLD and NASH.

Preparing for the NASH Epidemic: A Call to Action

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) are common conditions with a rising burden. Yet there are significant management gaps between clinical guidelines and practice in patients with NAFLD and NASH. Further, there is no single global guiding strategy for the management of NAFLD and NASH. The American Gastroenterological Association, in collaboration with 7 professional associations, convened an international conference comprising 32 experts in gastroenterology, hepatology, endocrinology, and primary care providers from the United States, Europe, Asia, and Australia. Conference content was informed by the results of a national NASH Needs Assessment Survey. The participants reviewed and discussed published literature on global burden, screening, risk stratification, diagnosis, and management of individuals with NAFLD, including those with NASH. Participants identified promising approaches for clinical practice and prepared a comprehensive, unified strategy for primary care providers and relevant specialists encompassing the full spectrum of NAFLD/NASH care. They also identified specific high-yield targets for clinical research and called for a unified, international public health response to NAFLD and NASH.

Preparing for the NASH Epidemic: A Call to Action

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) are common conditions with a rising burden. Yet there are significant management gaps between clinical guidelines and practice in patients with NAFLD and NASH. Further, there is no single global guiding strategy for the management of NAFLD and NASH. The American Gastroenterological Association, in collaboration with 7 professional associations, convened an international conference comprising 32 experts in gastroenterology, hepatology, endocrinology, and primary care providers from the United States, Europe, Asia, and Australia. Conference content was informed by the results of a national NASH Needs Assessment Survey. The participants reviewed and discussed published literature on global burden, screening, risk stratification, diagnosis, and management of individuals with NAFLD, including those with NASH. Participants identified promising approaches for clinical practice and prepared a comprehensive, unified strategy for primary care providers and relevant specialists encompassing the full spectrum of NAFLD/NASH care. They also identified specific high-yield targets for clinical research and called for a unified, international public health response to NAFLD and NASH.

Preparing for the NASH epidemic: A call to action

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) are common conditions with a rising burden. Yet there are significant management gaps between clinical guidelines and practice in patients with NAFLD and NASH. Further, there is no single global guiding strategy for the management of NAFLD and NASH. The American Gastroenterological Association, in collaboration with 7 professional associations, convened an international conference comprising 32 experts in gastroenterology, hepatology, endocrinology, and primary care providers from the United States, Europe, Asia, and Australia. Conference content was informed by the results of a national NASH Needs Assessment Survey. The participants reviewed and discussed published literature on global burden, screening, risk stratification, diagnosis, and management of individuals with NAFLD, including those with NASH. Participants identified promising approaches for clinical practice and prepared a comprehensive, unified strategy for primary care providers and relevant specialists encompassing the full spectrum of NAFLD/NASH care. They also identified specific high-yield targets for clinical research and called for a unified, international public health response to NAFLD and NASH.

The Association of Histologic and Noninvasive Tests With Adverse Clinical and Patient-Reported Outcomes in Patients With Advanced Fibrosis Due to Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis

BACKGROUND & AIM

Fibrosis is an independent predictor of death in nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). We assessed the associations between histologic and noninvasive tests (NITs) for fibrosis with clinical and patient-reported outcomes (PROs) in advanced NASH.

METHODS

Patients with advanced NASH (NASH Clinical Research Network stage F3 or F4) were enrolled in 4 multinational clinical trials of simtuzumab and selonsertib. Liver biopsy samples, NIT results, and PROs (Short Form-36, Chronic Liver Disease Questionnaire-NASH, EuroQol-5D, and Work Productivity and Activity Impairment) were prospectively collected.

RESULTS

A total of 2154 patients with advanced NASH were included: 52.5% with F4 NASH, 40% male, 72% with type 2 diabetes, baseline liver stiffness of 24.1 ± 14.2 kPa in F4 disease and 14.6 ± 8.0 kPa in F3 disease, baseline mean Enhanced Liver Fibrosis score of 11.4 ± 1.2 in F4 disease and 10.3 ± 1.0 in F3 disease, and a median follow-up of 16 months. Of those with baseline F3 disease, 16.7% experienced disease progression to cirrhosis, whereas for those with F4 disease, 7.3% experienced clinical events (39% ascites, 24% hepatic encephalopathy); patients who progressed had higher baseline NIT scores (all P < .0001). Adjusted for baseline levels, increases in NIT scores were also associated with increased risk of disease progression in both the F3 and F4 groups (P < .01 for all NITs in F3 and for ELF, NAFLD Fibrosis Score, Fibrosis-4 (FIB-4), and liver stiffness in F4). Higher NIT scores were found to be associated with impairment in PROs: ELF, ≥10.43; Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease Fibrosis Score, ≥1.80; Fibrotest score, ≥0.54; liver stiffness, ≥23.4 kPa. During treatment, patients with decreases in NIT scores experienced improvement of their PRO scores, whereas those with increase in NIT scores had their PRO scores worsen (P < .05).

CONCLUSIONS

Baseline NIT scores and their changes over time are predictors of adverse clinical and PROs in patients with advanced NASH. (ClinicalTrials.gov, Numbers NCT01672866, NCT01672879, NCT03053050, and NCT03053063).

Diversity in NAFLD: A Review of Manifestations of Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease in Different Ethnicities Globally

Globally, the rise in prevalence of obesity and metabolic syndrome as a whole has been linked to increased access to processed foods, such as refined sugars and saturated fats. Consequently, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is on the rise in both developed and developing nations. However, much is still unknown on the NAFLD phenotype with regards to the effect of ethnic diversity. Despite similarities in dietary habits, it appears that certain ethnicities are more protected against NAFLD than others. However, manifestations of the same genetic polymorphisms in different groups of people increase those individuals' predisposition to NAFLD. Diets from different regions have been associated with a lower prevalence of NAFLD and have even been linked to regression of hepatic steatosis. Socioeconomic variations amongst different regions of the world also contribute to NAFLD prevalence and associated complications. Thus, a thorough understanding of ethnic variability in NAFLD is essential to tailoring treatment recommendations to patients of different backgrounds.