REVIEW ON NON-ALCOHOLIC FATTY LIVER DISEASE AND ITS HOMOEOPATHIC TREATMENT

Abstract

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the commonest liver disorder in western industrialized countries (prevalence≈20%), NAFLD represents increase fat in hepatocytes (steatosis) visualized, e.g. on ultrasound that cannot be attributed to other causes (most commonly alcohol so consider NAFLD if Drink male <18u/wk, female <9u). If inflammation is also present (increase LFT, typically increase ALT) = non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). Rule out other causes of liver disease and check for associated metabolic disorders (obesity, dyslipidemia, diabetes and hypertension). Progression to cirrhosis may occur—biopsy or elastography may be needed. Risk factors for progression are older age; obesity; DM; NASH. Control risk factors; including obesity (bariatric surgery helps). Address cardiovascular risk (commonest cause of death). Avoid alcohol consumption. No drug is of proven Benefit, though vitamin E may improve histology in fibrosis (eg400 iu/d-higher doses Associated with excess mortality). Monitor for complications (NASH, cirrhosis, DM). If cirrhotic, screen for HCC with ultrasound± AFP twice-yearly. There is no standardized treatment for fatty liver. Treating the underlying cause can easily reverse the abnormal changes in the liver, provided, it is early in the disease. Homoeopathic remedies like Arsenic Album, Nux Vomica, Chelidonium, Cardus m, Apocynum, Lycopodium, Sepia, Phosphorous, Digitalis, Bryonia, Helleborus Niger, Ferrum Met, kali Carb, Iris V, Natrum Carb and many other medicines are very helpful in the treatment of fatty liver symptoms.