Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease refers to the accumulation of fatty deposits in the liver, in the absence of excessive alcohol consumption. Over time this can lead to inflammation in the liver and then scarring (cirrhosis). Patients with cirrhosis can develop complications, some of which include bleeding, liver failure, and liver cancer. Risk factors for developing fatty liver include obesity, diabetes, and high cholesterol. The fatty liver typically does not cause any symptoms. Treatment of fatty liver includes good control of diabetes and cholesterol and diet and exercise for weight loss.
