Alcoholic fatty liver (AF) occurs in most heavy drinker but is reversible on cessation of alcohol consumption.

Pathology

The liver is enlarged, greasy, yellow and firm. Hepatocytes are distended with fatty vacuoles which pushes the nucleus to the periphery. This occurs because fatty acid oxidation is impaired and they are taken up by the cells and esterified to form triglycerides.

Clinical Features

The clinical features are minimum or absent. There may be tender hepatomegaly only.

Usually all laboratory tests are normal. Sometimes there may be elevation of SGOT and alkaline phosphatase.

Prognosis

Alcoholic fatty liver has good prognosis. Complete resolution occurs after cessation of alcohol intake.

Treatment

• Alcohol intake must be stopped
• Nutritious diet with high doses of vitamin B complex must be given.