Fatty Liver Disease and Statins – Which Discipline the Problem Belongs To?

Overview

While fatty liver disease is a well-characterized entity, it is currently getting a completely new image. Its treatment is clearly an interdisciplinary challenge. The number of patients with fatty liver disease will be by no means negligible. The issue of fatty liver disease is not infrequently referred to in association with statin therapy instituted in an effort to treat metabolic syndrome and to reduce cardiovascular risks as part of preventive therapy. The attention focused on the increase in alanin aminotransferase levels during statin therapy is absolutely inadequate. The study includes an overview of the topic showing the induced rise in alanin aminotransferase is merely an accompanying phenomenon, mostly of no clinical relevance. An acceptable increase in alanin aminotransferase should not provide a reason for statin withdrawal in the usual spectrum of patients with metabolic syndrome and fatty liver disease. A distinct advantage is cooperation among a hepatologist, a cardiologist, and a diabetes expert. 

Key words:
fatty liver disease, statin, alanin aminotransferase, cardiovascular disease.