Abstracts by key term: Screening algorithm
The second part of the review on the diagnosis and care of patients with metabolically associated steatohepatitis (MASH) addresses the challenges and recommendations, taking into account the current S2k guidelines. The diagnostic algorithm focuses on a screening procedure for the early detection of MASH, with primary care physicians playing a key role. Elevated liver function tests or an abnormal fatty liver index (FLI) indicate further testing and, if necessary, referral to a specialist. Early identification is essential, especially in high-risk groups such as individuals with type 2 diabetes, obesity, or metabolic syndrome, to enable preventive action. Comprehensive metabolic diagnostics are a prerequisite for preventing disease progression. However, the care situation in the diagnosis of MASH is characterized by a number of limitations, including the limited application of the screening algorithm and the challenges of making a definitive diagnosis using liver biopsy. The discrepancy between the diagnosed number of MASH cases and the presumed prevalence indicates a significant number of undiagnosed cases, which ultimately leads to therapeutic deficits.