Imaging biomarkers for cardiometabolic risk stratification in metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease: incremental value of coronary artery calcification, epicardial adipose tissue, controlled attenuation parameter, and liver stiffness measurement beyond clinical scores.
Jiaxin Zhong, Huifen He, Yiwei Zhao et al.
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In 30 seconds
This systematic review analyzed 16 observational studies involving 34,713 adults with metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) to evaluate the association between MASLD and imaging biomarkers of atherosclerosis and hepatic disease. The study found that MASLD was linked to higher odds of coronary artery calcification (CAC), epicardial adipose tissue (EAT), controlled attenuation parameter (CAP), and liver stiffness measurement (LSM), with CAC showing a mean difference of 49.2 Agatston units compared to non-MASLD individuals.
Key findings
- MASLD was associated with higher odds of CAC (OR 1.41; 95% CI: 1.32-1.51).
- Higher odds of high EAT were observed in MASLD (OR 1.44; 95% CI: 1.21-1.68).
- MASLD showed higher odds of high CAP (OR 1.47; 95% CI: 1.35-1.58).
- CAC was higher by 49.2 Agatston units in MASLD compared to comparators.
Why it matters
Understanding the imaging biomarkers associated with MASLD can help clinicians better assess cardiovascular and hepatic risks in affected patients. This knowledge may guide future research on improving risk stratification and management strategies.