Noninvasive Prediction Model to Determine Resolution of Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis

A common clinical dilemma in management of patients with nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) is determining when an intervention such as weight loss has been effective without conducting a liver biopsy (the current gold standard to determine NASH resolution).

In a prospective lifestyle intervention trial, researchers identified noninvasive markers of resolution of NASH among 261 patients with biopsy-proven NASH who underwent 52 weeks of scripted recommendations regarding a healthy diet and increased physical activity. Patients underwent a second biopsy at the end of the study period. Using data from 140 patients (derivation group), researchers identified 13 candidate predictors of histologic resolution without worsening of fibrosis, tested t…