Background and Objectives: Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the most common cause of chronic liver disease worldwide. Indian data on the clinical spectrum, comorbidities and fibrosis burden of NAFLD remain limited. This study aimed to evaluate the clinical profile, laboratory parameters, comorbid associations and non-invasive fibrosis markers among patients with NAFLD at a tertiary care centre in Western India. Methods: This was a prospective observational study conducted over 12 months, enrolling 115 adult patients diagnosed with NAFLD on ultrasonography, with or without transient elastography or liver biopsy. Clinical features, biochemical parameters, metabolic comorbidities and complications were recorded. Non-invasive fibrosis assessment was performed using FIB-4, APRI and NAFLD Fibrosis Score (NFS). Statistical analysis was done using SPSS version 25. Results: The mean age of patients was 61.7 years, with a slight female predominance. Metabolic syndrome and diabetes mellitus were the most common comorbidities. Females had a significantly higher mean body mass index. Advanced fibrosis was highly prevalent, particularly in patients aged ≥60 years, with FIB-4 identifying high or advanced fibrosis in over 70% of cases. Portal hypertension and ascites were the most common complications. Conclusion: NAFLD patients presenting to tertiary care centres in India often have advanced disease with a high burden of fibrosis and metabolic comorbidities. Non-invasive fibrosis scores, particularly FIB-4, are valuable tools for risk stratification. Early detection and systematic screening are essential to prevent progression and complications.
Bharadwaj et al. (Sun,) studied this question.