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

Article information

J Korean Med. 2025;46(2):40-50
Publication date (electronic) : 2025 June 1
doi : https://doi.org/10.13048/jkm.25016
Yu-Jin Choiorcid_icon, Chang-Gue Sonorcid_icon
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 2025 March 17; Revised 2025 April 21; Accepted 2025 May 22.

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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Article information Continued

Fig. 1

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

Fig. 2

Summary for rationale of nomenclature of MASLD from NAFLD