The Clinical Significance of Myosteatosis in Various Liver Diseases (IMAGE)
Caption
The true prevalence and clinical significance of this distinct skeletal muscle abnormality remain unclear due to inconsistent assessment modalities and a lack of standardized definitions alongside diagnostic criteria across published studies. In the case of MAFLD, the onset of myosteatosis appears to be associated with dysregulated metabolic conditions and histological alterations. Myosteatosis accounts for additional negative impacts on morbidity and mortality in patients experiencing decompensated cirrhosis. In the context of LT, myosteatosis is linked to poor survival and adverse outcomes. Myosteatosis may also serve as an independent risk factor for the recurrence of HCC.
The underlying mechanisms of myosteatosis are multifaceted and complicated in the context of liver diseases, including but not limited to mitochondrial dysfunction, IR, and permanent inflammatory responses. Additionally, the development of various body composition abnormalities may be partly explained by an interplay between the muscle-liver tissue axis. Currently, all available therapies for myosteatosis, including exercise prescription, pharmacotherapy, and nutritional intervention, primarily aim to replace deficiencies rather than targeting mechanistic pathways. In light of concurrent myosteatosis and liver diseases, the identification of potential therapeutic strategies is of utmost importance due to those unmet clinical needs.
Credit
Chao Sun
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