The Role of a Dedicated Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease Clinic in 2016.

BACKGROUND

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the commonest cause of liver disease in the United Kingdom, and is predicted to become the leading indication for liver transplantation (LT) within the next 10 years. Key Messages: With rising demands on liver services, identifying those at risk of developing significant liver disease is important, so that risk factors for disease progression can be addressed. Emerging diagnostic techniques make it possible to diagnose significant fibrosis without the need for liver biopsy, and while there are currently no approved therapies for NAFLD, a specialist clinic can also provide access to clinical trials. For patients who develop cirrhosis, the presence of multiple comorbidities necessitates expertise in the selection and management of individuals requiring LT.

CONCLUSIONS

A dedicated multidisciplinary NAFLD clinic facilitates rationalisation of services, improves patient outcomes, and provides access to emerging diagnostics and therapies.