What is MASH?

In this FAQ Video Module, Corrie Berk, NP, Director of Hepatology and Transplant Outreach Programs at the Texas Liver Institute, answers key questions about Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatohepatitis (MASH)—a progressive liver disease that was previously known as Non-Alcoholic Steatohepatitis (NASH).

MASH is the inflammatory form of Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease (MASLD) and is caused by the buildup of excess fat in the liver in individuals who consume little to no alcohol. This condition can lead to liver inflammation, fibrosis, cirrhosis, and an increased risk of liver cancer. While genetics may play a role, MASH is closely linked to metabolic disorders such as obesity, insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes, and dyslipidemia, which contribute to disease progression.

Diagnosing MASH requires a combination of clinical evaluation, imaging studies, and non-invasive tests. Physicians often use ultrasound or MRI to detect liver fat, while FibroScan helps assess liver stiffness and fibrosis. In some cases, a liver biopsy may be necessary to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other liver diseases. By integrating these diagnostic tools, healthcare providers can better assess the severity of MASH and guide treatment decisions.

The transition from NASH (Non-Alcoholic Steatohepatitis) to MASH (Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatohepatitis) reflects a major shift in medical understanding. The previous term emphasized the absence of alcohol use but failed to highlight the metabolic dysfunction driving the disease. By renaming it MASH, the medical community now recognizes that metabolic health plays a critical role in disease progression. The name change also aligns research efforts and public health messaging, emphasizing the importance of early detection, lifestyle interventions, and emerging treatments that address both liver disease and metabolic risk factors.

With MASH now recognized as a metabolic-driven condition, healthcare providers are shifting their focus toward comprehensive management strategies that target obesity, insulin resistance, and dyslipidemia alongside liver-specific treatments. This new approach aims to improve patient outcomes by addressing the root causes of MASH rather than just its symptoms.

For more expert insights on MASH diagnosis, treatment, and management, visit the GHAPP website or download the GHAPP ACE App.