Pediatricians' practices and knowledge of metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease: An international survey.
J Pediatr Gastroenterol Nutr
; 78(3): 524-533, 2024 Mar.
Article
em En
| MEDLINE
| ID: mdl-38504393
ABSTRACT
OBJECTIVE:
Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) is the leading cause of chronic liver disease in children. It is associated with significant intra- and extrahepatic comorbidity. Current guidelines lack consensus, potentially resulting in variation in screening, diagnosis and treatment practices, which may lead to underdiagnosing and/or insufficient treatment. The increasing prevalence of MASLD and associated long-term health risks demand adequate clinical management and consensus in guidelines. This study aims to evaluate the daily practices of pediatricians in screening, diagnosis and treatment of MASLD in children.METHODS:
An online survey with 41 questions (single/multiple response options) was sent to pediatricians (with/without subspecialty) in Europe and Israel, via members of the ESPGHAN Fatty Liver Special Interest Group, between June and November 2022. The 454 pediatricians were included in this study.RESULTS:
51% of pediatricians indicated using any guideline for diagnosis and treatment of MASLD, with 68% reporting to follow recommendations only partially. 63% is of the opinion that guidelines need revision. The majority of pediatricians screen for MASLD with liver function tests and/or abdominal ultrasound. A large variety of treatment options is utilized, including lifestyle management, supplements and probiotics, with a notable 34% of pediatricians prescribing pharmacotherapy. When asked how often pediatricians request a liver biopsy in children with MASLD, 17% indicates they request a liver biopsy in more than 10% of cases.CONCLUSIONS:
There is limited awareness and considerable variation in screening, diagnosis and treatment practices among European pediatricians, and a clear demand for new, uniform guidelines for MASLD in children.Palavras-chave
Texto completo:
1
Coleções:
01-internacional
Base de dados:
MEDLINE
Assunto principal:
Fígado Gorduroso
/
Doenças Metabólicas
Limite:
Child
/
Humans
Idioma:
En
Ano de publicação:
2024
Tipo de documento:
Article