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Takahashi Y. Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease and adult growth hormone deficiency: An under-recognized association? Best Pract Res Clin Endocrinol Metab 2023; 37:101816. [PMID: 37643935 DOI: 10.1016/j.beem.2023.101816] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/31/2023]
Abstract
Growth hormone (GH) plays an essential role not only in promoting growth in children, but also in many important metabolic processes in adults. One of the major metabolic functions of GH is its stimulatory effects on the liver in generating approximately 80% of circulating insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1). Adult growth hormone deficiency (GHD) is an established clinical entity defined as a defect in endogenous GH secretion that is frequently associated with central obesity, loss of muscle mass, decreased bone mass, and impaired quality of life. Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) are conditions that are often under-recognized in adults with GHD, and accordingly some studies have shown that GH and IGF-1 levels are decreased in patients with NAFLD. Furthermore, it has been reported that it can progress to end-stage liver cirrhosis in some adults and children with GHD. Due to their underlying mechanisms of action, GH and IGF-1 can act on hepatocytes, macrophages, and hepatic stellate cells to mitigate progression to steatosis and fibrosis. It is, thus, important to recognize NAFLD/NASH as important complications in adult and childhood GHD. Therefore, careful and thorough evaluation of NAFLD/NASH in adults with GHD and the consideration for GH replacement therapy is crucial in these patients, together with management of other metabolic risk factors, such as obesity and dyslipidemia. This review will focus on recent reports on the role of GH and IGF-1 in the liver and its clinical significance in the regulation of hepatic function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yutaka Takahashi
- Department of Diabetes and Endocrinology, Nara Medical University, Japan.
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2
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Hutchison AL, Tavaglione F, Romeo S, Charlton M. Endocrine aspects of metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD): Beyond insulin resistance. J Hepatol 2023; 79:1524-1541. [PMID: 37730124 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2023.08.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2023] [Revised: 08/16/2023] [Accepted: 08/22/2023] [Indexed: 09/22/2023]
Abstract
While the association of metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) with obesity and insulin resistance is widely appreciated, there are a host of complex interactions between the liver and other endocrine axes. While it can be difficult to definitively distinguish direct causal relationships and those attributable to increased adipocyte mass, there is substantial evidence of the direct and indirect effects of endocrine dysregulation on the severity of MASLD, with strong evidence that low levels of growth hormone, sex hormones, and thyroid hormone promote the development and progression of disease. The impact of steroid hormones, e.g. cortisol and dehydroepiandrosterone, and adipokines is much more divergent. Thoughtful assessment, based on individual risk factors and findings, and management of non-insulin endocrine axes is essential in the evaluation and management of MASLD. Multiple therapeutic options have emerged that leverage various endocrine axes to reduce the fibroinflammatory cascade in MASH.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Federica Tavaglione
- Clinical Medicine and Hepatology Unit, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Campus Bio-Medico, Rome, Italy; Department of Medicine and Surgery, Università Campus Bio-Medico di Roma, Rome, Italy; Department of Molecular and Clinical Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Stefano Romeo
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden; Cardiology Department, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden; Clinical Nutrition Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University Magna Graecia, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Michael Charlton
- Center for Liver Diseases, University of Chicago, United States.
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3
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Arefhosseini S, Ebrahimi-Mameghani M, Najafipour F, Tutunchi H. Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease across endocrinopathies: Interaction with sex hormones. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:1032361. [PMID: 36419770 PMCID: PMC9676462 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.1032361] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2022] [Accepted: 10/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) has emerged as the most frequent chronic liver disease globally. NAFLD is strongly associated with metabolic syndrome and it has been recently suggested that to rename NAFLD as metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD). NAFLD has been studied in different endocrine axes and accumulating body of clinical and experimental studies have suggested that NAFLD is associated with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), hypopituitarism, growth hormone deficiency (GHD), hypogonadism and other endocrine disorders. In fact, endocrine dysfunction may be considered as the major contributor for the development, progression, and severity of NAFLD. In the present comprehensive review, we discussed the epidemiological and clinical evidence on the epidemiology, pathophysiology, and management of NAFLD in endocrine disorders, with an emphasis on the effects of sex-specific hormones/conditions as well as molecular basis of NAFLD development in these endocrine diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Arefhosseini
- Student Research Committee, Department of Biochemistry and Diet Therapy, Faculty of Nutrition and Food Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Mehrangiz Ebrahimi-Mameghani
- Nutrition Research Center, Department of Biochemistry and Diet Therapy, Faculty of Nutrition and Food Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Farzad Najafipour
- Endocrine Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Helda Tutunchi
- Endocrine Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
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Abstract
Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the leading cause of chronic liver disease in children. Although environmental factors are major contributors to early onset, children have both shared and unique genetic risk alleles as compared with adults with NAFLD. Treatment relies on reducing environmental risk factors, but many children have persistent diseases. No medications are approved specifically for the treatment of NAFLD, but some anti-obesity or diabetes treatments may be beneficial. Pediatric NAFLD increases the risk of diabetes and other cardiovascular risk factors. Long-term prospective studies are needed to determine the long-term risk of hepatic and non-hepatic morbidity and mortality in adulthood.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stavra A Xanthakos
- Professor of Pediatrics, Division of Gastroenterology Hepatology and Nutrition, Cincinnati Children's, Department of Pediatrics, Director, Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis Center, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, 3333 Burnet Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA.
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Doycheva I, Erickson D, Watt KD. Growth hormone deficiency and NAFLD: An overlooked and underrecognized link. Hepatol Commun 2022; 6:2227-2237. [PMID: 35765700 PMCID: PMC9426379 DOI: 10.1002/hep4.1953] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2021] [Revised: 02/07/2022] [Accepted: 03/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Growth hormone and its mediator insulin‐like growth factor‐1 exert their effect on different organs and control various physiologic metabolic processes. Adult growth hormone deficiency (AGHD) presents with one or more components of metabolic syndrome and can be associated with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). AGHD is present in spectrum of hypothalamic/pituitary disorders as well as cranial radiation of brain tumors and often remains underdiagnosed or untreated due to its nonspecific symptoms, relatively difficult diagnosis in some clinical scenarios, and various barriers to treatment. NAFLD usually develops soon after diagnosis of AGHD and might progress rapidly to nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) with advanced fibrosis, eventually requiring liver transplantation. A timely initiation of growth hormone replacement therapy might be important, although studies so far have demonstrated controversial results on NAFLD, primarily due to small sample size and different diagnostic methods of NAFLD. Increased awareness of the association between AGHD and NAFLD would facilitate early diagnosis of NAFLD and NASH if present. Therefore, a multidisciplinary approach involving hepatology and endocrinology should become a standard of care for these patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iliana Doycheva
- Section of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Dana Erickson
- Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism and Nutrition, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Kymberly D Watt
- Gastroenterology and Hepatology Department, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
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Zhang XY, Yuan K, Fang YL, Wang CL. Growth hormone ameliorates hepatopulmonary syndrome and nonalcoholic steatohepatitis secondary to hypopituitarism in a child: A case report. World J Clin Cases 2022; 10:6211-6217. [PMID: 35949851 PMCID: PMC9254213 DOI: 10.12998/wjcc.v10.i18.6211] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2021] [Revised: 03/25/2022] [Accepted: 04/22/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Craniopharyngioma is a benign tumor that usually develops in children; however, it is located in the center and close to sensitive structures, such as the pituitary gland and hypothalamus. As the hypothalamus plays a crucial role in the homeostasis of anterior pituitary hormone synthesis, damage to the hypothalamus leads to multiple pituitary hormone deficiencies and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, including hepatopulmonary syndrome (HPS). HPS has limited treatment and poor prognosis.
CASE SUMMARY A girl aged 13 years and 6 mo underwent surgery for craniopharyngioma 6 years prior. Right craniotomy was performed with total resection via the corpus callosum approach, and the tumor at the base was approximately 3.5 cm × 3.5 cm × 4.0 cm. At 1 year postoperatively, she exhibited abdominal distension and weakness, and the laboratory tests revealed fatty liver disease. Thereafter, she had not visited the outpatient clinic for 2 years. Two years ago, she developed decreased activity endurance, severe cyanosis, chest tightness, wheezing, and intermittent and recurrent low fever after mild physical labor. Hepatobiliary ultrasonography, liver biopsy, and contrast echocardiography of the right heart showed cirrhosis and multiple pituitary hormone deficiencies, indicating HPS. After 1 year of treatment with recombinant human growth hormone, the liver function and oxygenation improved; she did not undergo liver transplantation.
CONCLUSION Craniopharyngioma surgery can easily cause hypopituitarism, which can lead to nonalcoholic steatohepatitis and HPS in children. Early growth hormone therapy is important to improve the prognosis of these diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-Yuan Zhang
- Department of Pediatrics, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310003, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Ke Yuan
- Department of Pediatrics, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310003, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Yan-Lan Fang
- Department of Pediatrics, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310003, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Chun-Lin Wang
- Department of Pediatrics, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310003, Zhejiang Province, China
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Xue J, Liang S, Ma J, Xiao Y. Effect of growth hormone therapy on liver enzyme and other cardiometabolic risk factors in boys with obesity and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. BMC Endocr Disord 2022; 22:49. [PMID: 35216556 PMCID: PMC8881210 DOI: 10.1186/s12902-022-00967-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2021] [Accepted: 02/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) has become the most common causes of liver disease in children and adolescents. Although several reports have confirmed the significant correlation between NAFLD and growth hormone (GH)-insulin-like growth factor 1(IGF-1) axis, no study further investigates whether or not recombinant human GH (rhGH) treatment can improve NAFLD in obese children. METHODS This study was a randomized, open-label study comprising 44 boys with obesity and NAFLD (11.76 ± 1.67 year) to evaluate the effects of 6 months of rhGH administration for boys with obesity and NAFLD. The subjects were randomized divided into treatment group (subjects with recombinant human GH (rhGH)) and control group for 6 months. RESULTS After 6 months, IGF-1 increased significantly during rhGH treatment, in comparison with the control group (582.45 ± 133.00 vs. 359.64 ± 129.00 ng/ml; p < 0.001). A significant reduction in serum alanine aminotransferase(ALT) (15.00 vs. 28.00 U/L; p = 0.001), aspartate aminotransferase(AST) (20.00 vs. 24.50U/L; p = 0.004), gamma glutamyl transferase(GGT) (14.50 vs. 28.50 U/L; p < 0.001) was observed in the GH-treated boys. In addition, the rhGH group showed a significant decrease in C reactive protein (CRP) (1.17 ± 0.76 vs. 2.26 ± 1.43 mg/L) and body mass index standard deviation scores (BMI SDS) (2.28 ± 0.80 vs. 2.71 ± 0.61) than the control group (p = 0.003, p = 0.049 respectively). GH treatment also reduced low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) (2.19 ± 0.42 vs. 2.61 ± 0.66 mmol/L; p = 0.016) and increased high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) (1.30 vs. 1.15 mmol/L; p = 0.005), and there were no changes in total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TG) and uric acid(UA) between the treatment group and the control group. CONCLUSION Our findings suggest that 6 months treatment with rhGH may be beneficial for liver enzyme and can improve obesity-related other cardiovascular and metabolic complications in boys with obesity and NAFLD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiang Xue
- Department of Pediatrics, The Second Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Department of Pediatrics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Shuang Liang
- Department of Pediatrics, The Second Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Jiahui Ma
- Department of Cardiology, Yankuang New Journey General Hospital, Zoucheng, China
| | - Yanfeng Xiao
- Department of Pediatrics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China.
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Kang SJ, Kwon A, Jung MK, Chae HW, Kim S, Koh H, Shin HJ, Kim HS. High Prevalence of Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease Among Adolescents and Young Adults With Hypopituitarism due to Growth Hormone Deficiency. Endocr Pract 2021; 27:1149-1155. [PMID: 34126247 DOI: 10.1016/j.eprac.2021.06.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2021] [Revised: 05/12/2021] [Accepted: 06/07/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the prevalence of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in adolescents and young adults with hypopituitarism and to examine the associations of growth hormone (GH) deficiency with the occurrence of NAFLD. METHODS A cross-sectional study for the determination of NAFLD prevalence included 76 patients with childhood-onset hypopituitarism and 74 controls matched by age and body mass index (BMI). We investigated the prevalence of NAFLD in adolescent and young adult patients with hypopituitarism as well as the age- and BMI-matched controls. Among patients with hypopituitarism, anthropometric, clinical, and biochemical assessments using transient elastography and magnetic resonance imaging were performed. Logistic regression was used to identify the factors associated with NAFLD. RESULTS The adolescents and young adults with hypopituitarism exhibited higher prevalence of NAFLD than the age- and BMI-matched controls. Among patients with hypopituitarism, obesity and obesity-related metabolic derangements were significantly associated with liver steatosis and fibrosis, whereas lower insulin-like growth factor (IGF)-I standard deviation score (SDS) and IGF-I/IGF-binding protein 3 molar ratios were associated with steatosis. In regression analyses adjusted for BMI SDS, steatosis was found to be associated with a lower IGF-I SDS and IGF-I/IGF-binding protein 3 molar ratios, whereas liver fibrosis was found to be associated with a lower IGF-I SDS. CONCLUSION Our results suggest that GH deficiency contributes to the occurrence of NAFLD, along with obesity and obesity-related metabolic changes. Because NAFLD occurs early in patients with hypopituitarism, the surveillance, weight control, and timely replacement of deficit hormones, including GH, are essential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seok Jin Kang
- Department of Pediatrics, Keimyung University Dongsan Hospital, Daegu, Korea
| | - Ahreum Kwon
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Endocrinology, Severance Children's Hospital, Endocrine Research Institute, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Mo Kyung Jung
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Endocrinology, Severance Children's Hospital, Endocrine Research Institute, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Hyun Wook Chae
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Endocrinology, Severance Children's Hospital, Endocrine Research Institute, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Seung Kim
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Severance Children's Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Hong Koh
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Severance Children's Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Hyun Joo Shin
- Department of Radiology and Research Institute of Radiological Science, Severance Children's Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Ho-Seong Kim
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Endocrinology, Severance Children's Hospital, Endocrine Research Institute, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea.
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Pan CS, Weiss JJ, Fourman LT, Buckless C, Branch KL, Lee H, Torriani M, Misra M, Stanley TL. Effect of recombinant human growth hormone on liver fat content in young adults with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. Clin Endocrinol (Oxf) 2021; 94:183-192. [PMID: 33037656 PMCID: PMC9284460 DOI: 10.1111/cen.14344] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2020] [Revised: 09/01/2020] [Accepted: 09/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is highly prevalent in young adults with obesity. Obesity is associated with relative growth hormone (GH) deficiency, and data from animal studies and from humans with pituitary GH deficiency suggest a role for GH deficiency in the pathogenesis of NAFLD. The effects of GH on NAFLD in those with obesity are unknown, however, prompting this pilot study to assess effects of GH administration on measures of NAFLD in young adults. METHODS Twenty-four men and women aged 18-29 years with BMI ≥ 30 kg/m2 , hepatic fat fraction (HFF) ≥ 5% on proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy (1 H-MRS) and insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) z-score ≤ 0 were randomized to treatment with recombinant human GH (rhGH) versus no treatment for 24 weeks. The primary endpoint was change in HFF. RESULTS Compared to no treatment, the effect size of rhGH on absolute HFF over 24 weeks was -3.3% (95% confidence interval: -7.8%, 1.2%; p = .14). At 24 weeks, HFF < 5% was achieved in 5 of 9 individuals receiving rhGH versus 1 of 9 individuals receiving no treatment (p = .04). rhGH did not significantly reduce ALT, AST or GGT. Serum IGF-1 increased as expected with rhGH treatment, and there were no changes in fasting lipids, C-reactive protein, fasting glucose or 2-h glucose following an oral glucose tolerance test. CONCLUSION Data from this pilot study suggest that rhGH treatment in young adults with obesity and NAFLD may have benefits to reduce liver fat content, although larger studies are needed to confirm this effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chelsea S Pan
- Metabolism Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Julian J Weiss
- Metabolism Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Lindsay T Fourman
- Metabolism Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Colleen Buckless
- Department of Radiology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Karen L Branch
- Translational and Clinical Research Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Hang Lee
- Biostatistics Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Martin Torriani
- Department of Radiology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Madhusmita Misra
- Pediatric Endocrine Division, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Neuroendocrine Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Takara L Stanley
- Metabolism Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Pediatric Endocrine Division, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
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Singeap AM, Stanciu C, Huiban L, Muzica CM, Cuciureanu T, Girleanu I, Chiriac S, Zenovia S, Nastasa R, Sfarti C, Cojocariu C, Trifan A. Association between Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease and Endocrinopathies: Clinical Implications. Can J Gastroenterol Hepatol 2021; 2021:6678142. [PMID: 33505943 PMCID: PMC7814954 DOI: 10.1155/2021/6678142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2020] [Accepted: 12/31/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) has a rising prevalence worldwide. Its potential for evolution towards liver cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma, as well as associations with extrahepatic manifestations, represents a double burden for patients and physicians alike. Recently, there has been increasing evidence of the association between NAFLD and a number of endocrinopathies, such as hypothyroidism, polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), hypopituitarism, growth hormone deficiency (GHD), hypogonadism, and hypercortisolism. Definite correlations are supported by clear evidence so far, but further studies are needed in order to completely clarify the pathogenic mechanisms and, especially, to identify therapeutic implications. In this review, we present the main relationships between NAFLD and endocrinopathies, emphasizing the reciprocal causality, evolutive interconnections, and current clinical scenarios of presentations of which the clinicians should be aware.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana-Maria Singeap
- 1Department of Gastroenterology, “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Iasi 700115, Romania
- 2Institute of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, “St. Spiridon” Emergency Hospital, Iasi 700111, Romania
| | - Carol Stanciu
- 2Institute of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, “St. Spiridon” Emergency Hospital, Iasi 700111, Romania
| | - Laura Huiban
- 1Department of Gastroenterology, “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Iasi 700115, Romania
- 2Institute of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, “St. Spiridon” Emergency Hospital, Iasi 700111, Romania
| | - Cristina Maria Muzica
- 1Department of Gastroenterology, “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Iasi 700115, Romania
- 2Institute of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, “St. Spiridon” Emergency Hospital, Iasi 700111, Romania
| | - Tudor Cuciureanu
- 1Department of Gastroenterology, “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Iasi 700115, Romania
- 2Institute of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, “St. Spiridon” Emergency Hospital, Iasi 700111, Romania
| | - Irina Girleanu
- 1Department of Gastroenterology, “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Iasi 700115, Romania
- 2Institute of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, “St. Spiridon” Emergency Hospital, Iasi 700111, Romania
| | - Stefan Chiriac
- 1Department of Gastroenterology, “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Iasi 700115, Romania
- 2Institute of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, “St. Spiridon” Emergency Hospital, Iasi 700111, Romania
| | - Sebastian Zenovia
- 1Department of Gastroenterology, “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Iasi 700115, Romania
- 2Institute of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, “St. Spiridon” Emergency Hospital, Iasi 700111, Romania
| | - Robert Nastasa
- 1Department of Gastroenterology, “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Iasi 700115, Romania
- 2Institute of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, “St. Spiridon” Emergency Hospital, Iasi 700111, Romania
| | - Catalin Sfarti
- 1Department of Gastroenterology, “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Iasi 700115, Romania
- 2Institute of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, “St. Spiridon” Emergency Hospital, Iasi 700111, Romania
| | - Camelia Cojocariu
- 1Department of Gastroenterology, “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Iasi 700115, Romania
- 2Institute of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, “St. Spiridon” Emergency Hospital, Iasi 700111, Romania
| | - Anca Trifan
- 1Department of Gastroenterology, “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Iasi 700115, Romania
- 2Institute of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, “St. Spiridon” Emergency Hospital, Iasi 700111, Romania
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Extra-hepatic manifestations and complications of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. Future Med Chem 2020; 11:2171-2192. [PMID: 31538528 DOI: 10.4155/fmc-2019-0003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
This review article aims to synthesize the evidence regarding nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) as a systemic disorder. We critically discuss the metabolic syndrome and its components; the cardiovascular and the endocrine system; chronic respiratory disorders; the musculoskeletal system; the skin; and extra-hepatic tumors. We conclude that, while some of these extra-hepatic conditions clearly predispose to the development of secondary forms of NAFLD (typically hypothyroidism-induced NAFLD), others result from pre-existent NAFLD (e.g., certain extra-hepatic tumors) and others (such as Type 2 Diabetes) have, with NAFLD, mutual and bidirectional associations. Analyzed data imply that NAFLD is not merely a hepatic disease. It is also and possibly more importantly, a systemic disorder requiring a special awareness, a multidisciplinary approach and a multidimensional vision.
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Lonardo A, Mantovani A, Lugari S, Targher G. NAFLD in Some Common Endocrine Diseases: Prevalence, Pathophysiology, and Principles of Diagnosis and Management. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:E2841. [PMID: 31212642 PMCID: PMC6600657 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20112841] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2019] [Accepted: 06/04/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Secondary nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) defines those complex pathophysiological and clinical consequences that ensue when the liver becomes an ectopic site of lipid storage owing to reasons other than its mutual association with the metabolic syndrome. Disorders affecting gonadal hormones, thyroid hormones, or growth hormones (GH) may cause secondary forms of NAFLD, which exhibit specific pathophysiologic features and, in theory, the possibility to receive an effective treatment. Here, we critically discuss epidemiological and pathophysiological features, as well as principles of diagnosis and management of some common endocrine diseases, such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), hypothyroidism, hypogonadism, and GH deficiency. Collectively, these forms of NAFLD secondary to specific endocrine derangements may be envisaged as a naturally occurring disease model of NAFLD in humans. Improved understanding of such endocrine secondary forms of NAFLD promises to disclose novel clinical associations and innovative therapeutic approaches, which may potentially be applied also to selected cases of primary NAFLD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amedeo Lonardo
- Operating Unit Internal Medicine-Ospedale Civile di Baggiovara-AOU, 41125 Modena, Italy.
| | - Alessandro Mantovani
- Section of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, University and Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Integrata of Verona, 37126 Verona, Italy.
| | - Simonetta Lugari
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Science, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy.
| | - Giovanni Targher
- Section of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, University and Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Integrata of Verona, 37126 Verona, Italy.
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Association between Alanine Aminotransferase and Growth Hormone: A Retrospective Cohort Study of Short Children and Adolescents. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2019; 2019:5939372. [PMID: 31073528 PMCID: PMC6470421 DOI: 10.1155/2019/5939372] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2018] [Accepted: 03/19/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Objective This study aimed to examine the relationship between serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and growth hormone (GH) in children and adolescents with short stature. Methods In this retrospective cohort study, 670 Chinese children and adolescents with short stature were included, and 253 of them received recombinant human GH (rhGH) therapy. Anthropometric and biochemical indicators were measured. GH peak levels were assessed after provocation tests with L-dopa and insulin. The subjects were divided into 3 groups according to the GH peak level. The association between the GH peak and ALT was analyzed. The change of ALT during rhGH therapy was assessed by a generalized additive mixed model. Results Serum ALT and incidence of ALT elevation were both decreased across the GH tertiles (P = 0.002, 0.012, respectively). A univariate analysis showed that the GH peak was negatively associated with ALT (β: -0.12; 95%CI: -0.22, -0.02; P = 0.023). Furthermore, multiple linear stepwise regression analysis demonstrated that the GH peak was independently related to ALT after adjusting for other confounding variables (β: -0.12; 95%CI: -0.24, -0.00; P = 0.042). Besides, mean values of the change in ALT from baseline displayed that, during the early stages of rhGH treatment, serum ALT level indicated a temporary upward trend, but it subsequently gradually decreased (β: -0.16; 95%CI: -0.23, -0.09; P < 0.001). Conclusions GH secretion level was strongly negatively correlated with ALT in short children and adolescents. And rhGH therapy could reduce ALT level over time.
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Henry RK. Growth Hormone Deficiency and Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease with Insights from Humans and Animals: Pediatric Implications. Metab Syndr Relat Disord 2018; 16:507-513. [PMID: 30346875 DOI: 10.1089/met.2018.0056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
In addition to its growth promoting role, growth hormone (GH) has a significant effect on intermediary metabolism in the well state. Despite the latter fact, pediatric practitioners are usually focused on the growth promoting aspects of GH as opposed to those metabolic. In recent years various animal and human studies (in adults mainly) and clinical reports in children have repeatedly shown the association of GH deficiency (GHD) and fatty liver disease. Based on this well-identified association, despite a lack of studies involving children, it behooves the pediatric clinician to ensure that not only patients with GHD are appropriately treated but also that adolescents even beyond the period of linear growth should be appropriately transitioned to adult GH therapy should this be appropriate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rohan K Henry
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Pediatrics, Nationwide Children's Hospital/The Ohio State University College of Medicine , Columbus, Ohio
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