Determinants of metabolic dysfunction associated steatotic liver disease and liver fibrosis in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus: a cross-sectional study - Report - MDSpire

Determinants of metabolic dysfunction associated steatotic liver disease and liver fibrosis in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus: a cross-sectional study

  • By

  • Soumaya Mrabet

  • Ghada Saad

  • Asma Ben cheikh

  • Mohamed Abu Awad

  • Imen Halloul

  • Raida Harbi

  • Meryam Eloillaf

  • Imen Akkari

  • Yosra Hasni

  • Elhem Ben Jazia

  • July 17, 2026

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Factors Influencing Metabolic Dysfunction-Related Steatotic Liver Disease

Overview

This study identifies the prevalence of metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2D) and highlights factors associated with advanced liver fibrosis. The findings indicate that 69.1% of participants met the criteria for MASLD, with 17.4% unable to rule out advanced fibrosis.

Background

MASLD is the leading cause of chronic liver disease globally, particularly in the context of rising obesity and metabolic disorders. The condition is closely linked to type 2 diabetes, with a significant prevalence among diabetic patients.

Data Highlights

MeasureValue
Average Age57.9 ± 11.8 years
Female Predominance63.8%
MASLD Prevalence69.1% [95% CI (61.7–76.5)]
Advanced Fibrosis Risk17.4% [95% CI (11.7-24.5)]
Median Liver Stiffness5.0 kPa (IQR 4.0–6.5)

Key Findings

  • 69.1% of patients with T2D met the criteria for MASLD.
  • Advanced fibrosis could not be ruled out in 17.4% of patients.
  • High Body Mass Index (aOR = 1.25) and total cholesterol (aOR = 1.69) are independent predictors of MASLD.
  • Higher platelet distribution width (PDW) is associated with nearly a threefold increase in the odds of advanced fibrosis (aOR = 2.78).
  • Increasing GGT levels significantly correlate with advanced fibrosis (aOR = 1.12).

Clinical Implications

Healthcare providers should be aware of the high prevalence of MASLD in patients with T2D and the associated risk of advanced fibrosis. Regular screening and monitoring for liver disease in this population are essential for timely intervention.

Conclusion

The study underscores the importance of identifying patients with MASLD and advanced fibrosis to implement appropriate management strategies and prevent severe liver complications.

Related Resources & Content

  1. BMJ Open Gastroenterology, 2023 -- Liver fibrosis in metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease: epidemiology, risk stratification and therapeutics
  2. Frontiers in Endocrinology, 2026 -- Discriminating prevalent type 2 diabetes among community-dwelling older adults with metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease: a comparative analysis of 12 insulin resistance surrogates
  3. BMJ Open Gastroenterology, 2023 -- Interplay between MASLD, obesity and type 2 diabetes: epidemiology, shared pathways and clinical implications
  4. Frontiers in Medicine — The role of mitochondrial dynamics in metabolic dysfunction–associated steatotic liver disease
  5. Clinical care pathway for the risk stratification and management of patients with MASLD
  6. Summary of Revisions: Standards of Care in Diabetes—2026
  7. EASL-EASD-EASO Clinical Practice Guidelines on the management of metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD)
  8. Metabolic Dysfunction–Associated Steatotic Liver Disease (MASLD) in People With Diabetes: The Need for Screening and Early Intervention. A Consensus Report of the American Diabetes Association | Diabetes Care | American Diabetes Association
  9. Global prevalence of advanced fibrosis in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus: a systematic review and meta‐analysis - PMC
  10. Global Prevalence, Incidence, and Outcomes of Coexisting MASLD and Chronic Kidney Disease: A Meta-Analysis - PubMed
  11. A Phase 3, Randomized, Controlled Trial of Resmetirom in NASH with Liver Fibrosis | New England Journal of Medicine
  12. FDA Approves First Treatment for Patients with Liver Scarring Due to Fatty Liver Disease
  13. Clinical Assessment and Management of Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease | AASLD
  14. Tirzepatide for Metabolic Dysfunction–Associated Steatohepatitis with Liver Fibrosis | New England Journal of Medicine

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