Medical Implications of Renaming Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) to Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease (MASLD)

Yu-Jin Choi; Chang-Gue Son; Choi, Yu-Jin; Son, Chang-Gue

doi:10.13048/jkm.25016

JKM > Volume 46(2); 2025 > Article

Choi and Son: Medical Implications of Renaming Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) to Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease (MASLD)

Original Article

The Journal of Korean Medicine 2025; 46(2): 40-50.

Published online: June 1, 2025

DOI: https://doi.org/10.13048/jkm.25016

Medical Implications of Renaming Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) to Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease (MASLD)

Yu-Jin Choi

, Chang-Gue Son^*

Liver and Immunology Research Center, Korean Medical College in Daejeon University

Correspondence to: Chang-Gue Son, Liver and Immunology Research Center, Daejeon Korean Medicine Hospital of Daejeon University, # 35235 Daedukdae-ro 176 bun-gil 75, Seo-gu, Daejeon, Republic of Korea, Tel: +82 42 484 6484, Fax: +82-42-257-6398, E-mail: ckson@dju.ac.kr

Received March 17, 2025 Revised April 21, 2025 Accepted May 22, 2025

Abstract

Objectives

The recent renaming of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) to metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) reflects an evolving understanding of its pathophysiology. This review aims to examine the medical significance of this nomenclature change, focusing on its rationale, clinical implications, and potential impact on patient management.

Methods

A literature review was conducted to analyze the historical background, diagnostic criteria, and clinical relevance of the transition from NAFLD to MASLD. Key publications and expert consensus statements were evaluated to assess the implications of this nomenclature change on disease perception, diagnosis, and treatment approaches.

Results

The shift from NAFLD to MASLD highlights the central role of metabolic dysfunction in disease progression, providing a more precise and inclusive classification. The revised terminology not only reduces the stigma associated with the term “non-alcoholic” but also enhances disease awareness and its medical significance, aligning with recent advancements in liver disease research. Additionally, it supports a more standardized diagnostic framework, facilitating earlier detection and appropriate therapeutic strategies

Conclusions

The renaming of NAFLD to MASLD represents a significant paradigm shift in hepatology. This study provides Korean medical practitioners with a new perspective, emphasizing the role of metabolic dysfunction-related liver disease as a key driver of both intrahepatic and extrahepatic systemic disorders.

Keywords: MASLD, NAFLD, nomenclature change, metabolic dysfunction, liver disease classification

Fig. 1

Outline for steatotic liver diseases (SLD) and their diagnostic criteria.

NAFLD: non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, NAFLD: metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease, MASLD: metabolic dysfunction-associated steatosis liver disease, MetALD: metabolic dysfunction-associated alcohol-related liver disease, ALD: alcohol-related liver disease, MASH: metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis.

Fig. 2

Summary for rationale of nomenclature of MASLD from NAFLD

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