What does the acronym NASH stand for in relation to liver disease?

NASH stands for Non-alcoholic steatohepatitis. This term describes a condition characterized by inflammation of the liver and damage caused by a buildup of fat in the liver that occurs in individuals who consume little to no alcohol. NASH is a progressive liver disease that can lead to more severe complications such as cirrhosis or liver cancer, particularly in the context of metabolic syndrome and conditions like obesity and type 2 diabetes.

The components of the term reflect its key characteristics: "non-alcoholic" indicates that it is not related to alcohol consumption, "steato" refers to fat, and "hepatitis" signifies inflammation of the liver. This understanding of NASH is crucial for diagnosing and managing liver disease, as it highlights the importance of lifestyle factors in liver health, particularly in populations where alcoholic liver disease is less common.