Apparently fatty liver, but Gamma GT is okay - alcohol?
December 18, 2010 | 15,00 EUR | answered by Dr. med. Ive Dr. Schaaf
Good day,
During an ultrasound examination, it was noted that the edges of my liver are not clearly defined but rather appear blurred. The doctor diagnosed a Steatosis Hepatis / Fatty Liver.
The gamma GT value in my blood test is a safe 44.
I consume alcohol daily (only beer) in moderate amounts (2-3 times 0.5l of beer per day).
My diet seems average to me, possibly a little (but not dramatically) too fatty, but significantly too salty.
My question: Could the mentioned liver problem be related to the above-mentioned alcohol consumption EVEN THOUGH the gamma GT value is in the normal range, or would an alcohol-induced fatty liver also result in an unfavorable gamma value?
I would like to continue enjoying my after-work beer in moderate amounts, but of course, I do not want to risk serious liver damage.
Thank you!
Good evening,
To diagnose fatty liver, two criteria should be met: first, the edges should be less sharp and more rounded, and second, the ultrasound pattern in the liver should be altered (brighter/more reflective than normal). Fatty liver is most commonly caused by a "good lifestyle," which includes not only alcohol but also good eating habits. Gamma-GT levels may be elevated, but not necessarily (see www.laborlexikon.de). Your value matches the alcohol consumption you indicated, not completely ruling out an alcohol-related fatty liver, but suggesting that other reasons should be sought if the change is not already so moderate that it is classified as "civilization-induced" and simply monitored regularly.
Regarding your question: How should I behave in the future...
The liver has an incredible ability to heal itself. It constantly repairs itself, and it should easily be able to handle 2 to 3 beers a day. So the question arises: Are there any other risk factors besides alcohol? Especially considering the normal Gamma-GT levels.
If not, you can calmly continue your lifestyle and await further check-ups. Rounded liver edges are likely present in at least every second German adult. Fatty liver can also be found in almost every second adult (depending on the source, up to 40 or 50%). I certainly do not want to justify alcohol consumption, but quality of life should always come first, and there is initially no reasonable reason to prohibit you from having 2-3 beers a day.
It becomes concerning - and that's what you wanted to know - when it progresses to cirrhosis. This condition becomes irreversible at a certain point. It takes (many) years from fatty liver to cirrhosis.
So you still have plenty of time to determine any other reasons for your fatty liver and to see how things progress.
Have a nice evening.
Dr. Schaaf
