Fatty liver means extra fat has built up in the liver. Its medical name is now metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), previously non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). It is common in Singapore, and is closely linked to excess weight, diabetes, high cholesterol and high blood pressure.
Most people have no symptoms. Fatty liver is usually found by chance on a health screen, an ultrasound, or liver blood tests that are slightly raised.
Why it matters
In many people fatty liver stays mild. In some it causes inflammation and scarring (fibrosis), which over years can progress to cirrhosis and raise the risk of liver cancer. Knowing how much scarring there is helps decide how closely to follow it up.
How it is assessed
- Blood tests, including liver function and tests for other causes of liver disease such as hepatitis B and C
- An ultrasound scan of the liver
- A FibroScan (a painless ultrasound-based test of liver stiffness) or blood-based scores, to estimate scarring
- Checks for diabetes, cholesterol and blood pressure
Treatment
The main treatment is gradual weight loss through diet and exercise, together with good control of diabetes, cholesterol and blood pressure, and limiting alcohol. Dr Chia goes through a realistic plan with each patient. Medicines may be considered for some people with significant scarring.
When to see a specialist
- Liver blood tests that stay abnormal
- Fatty liver together with diabetes or obesity
- A scan or test that suggests scarring
General information only. Reviewed by Dr Chia Chung King, 2026-11-07. Book a consultation.