Non-alcoholic steatohepatitis.

Non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) is an underdiagnosed liver disease characterized by steatosis, necroinflammation and fibrosis. This disease may eventually develop into cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. NASH is highly prevalent among obese individuals and among patients with diabetes mellitus type 2. Non-alcoholic fatty liver (NAFL), a precursor of NASH, is the main cause of elevated serum liver enzymes among the general population. In NASH the liver is programmed to lipogenesis rather than to glycogenesis and herein insulin-resistance plays a major role. Gradual weight loss, physical exercise and drugs that improve insulin sensitivity are potential therapies.