GASTROENTEROLOGY ARTICLE OF THE WEEK
April 24, 2008
Harrison SA. Abnormal liver tests and fatty liver on ultrasound. Clin Gastroenterol Hepatol 2008;6:26-29.
1. Factors that are associated with advanced fibrosis and NASH include
a. Obesity
b. Age 50 or older
c. African American ethnicity
d. AST:ALT ratio >0.8
e. Male gender
f. Hypertension
2. Potential problems associated with the use of pioglitazone for NASH include
a. Weight gain
b. Lower extremity edema
c. Bone loss
d. Hypoglycemia
e. Hepatotoxicity
True or False
3. Progression to NASH may be related to an increase in proinflammatory cytokines from visceral adipose tissue and reduced levels of adiponectin
4. Dietary recommendations for patients with NAFLD should include calorie reduction and decrease intake of saturated fats and fructose corn syrup
5. Bariatric surgery is contraindicated in patients with NASH
6. Fatty liver disease is less common among African Americans
7. Metformin appears to be as effective as pioglitazone for NASH