Clinical Report: Metabolic Dysfunction-Related Steatotic Liver Disease in Children

Overview

Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) is now the most prevalent chronic liver disease in children, closely linked to rising obesity rates. The condition often remains asymptomatic in early stages.

Background

The increasing prevalence of MASLD among children and adolescents is a significant public health concern, particularly as it parallels the global rise in pediatric obesity. With prevalence rates of 13% in the general pediatric population and 47% among those with obesity, understanding MASLD's pathophysiology is critical. The condition can progress to severe liver complications.

Data Highlights

No specific numerical data provided in the article.

Key Findings

• MASLD is the most common chronic liver disease in children and adolescents.
• Prevalence estimates are 13% in the general pediatric population and 47% among children with obesity.
• The pathophysiology of MASLD is multifactorial, involving insulin resistance, genetic factors, and gut-liver axis dysregulation.
• Pharmacotherapy options for MASLD in children remain limited, with ongoing research into potential treatments.

Clinical Implications

Healthcare professionals should be vigilant in screening for MASLD in children, especially those with obesity.

Conclusion

The rising incidence of MASLD in children necessitates increased awareness. Continued research is essential to address existing gaps in understanding and treatment.

Related Resources & Content

1. AASLD Practice Statement, PubMed, 2025 -- Evaluation and Management of MASLD in Children
2. BMJ Paediatrics Open, 2026 -- Paediatric MASLD: A Growing Health Concern
3. Frontiers in Pediatrics, 2026 -- Gut Microbiota and Pediatric MASLD
4. Understanding the Pathophysiology of Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease and Its Surgical Considerations
5. The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism — Raising Awareness and Improving Diagnosis of Steatotic Liver Disease Among Adolescents
6. Frontiers in Medicine — The role of mitochondrial dynamics in metabolic dysfunction–associated steatotic liver disease
7. Understanding the Pathophysiology of Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease
8. Raising Awareness and Improving Diagnosis of Steatotic Liver Disease Among Adolescents
9. AASLD Practice Statement on the evaluation and management of metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease in children - PubMed
10. Paediatric metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD): a growing health concern in the age of childhood obesity | BMJ Paediatrics Open
11. Effect of Vitamin E or Metformin for Treatment of Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease in Children and Adolescents: The TONIC Randomized Controlled Trial - PMC