Relationship Between Hepatosteatosis and Early Atherosclerotic Changes in Young Patients with Metabolic Dysfunction–Associated Fatty Liver Disease

Objective: Given the strong correlation between metabolic dysfunction–associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) and elevated cardiovascular risk, this study sought to investigate how hepatic steatosis influences subclinical atherosclerosis in a young patient cohort by assessing carotid intima–media thickness (CIMT).

Methods: The study involved 108 patients (aged 18-45 years) diagnosed with hepatic steatosis via ultrasonography and 36 healthy controls, recruited between April 2023 and September 2025.

Results: Findings revealed that CIMT values were notably higher in the MAFLD group compared to the control group (0.67 ± 0.15 mm vs. 0.54 ± 0.13 mm; P < .05). Patients with MAFLD exhibited significantly higher body mass index, triglyceride levels, and liver dimensions, alongside reduced HDL cholesterol. A strong positive correlation was identified between CIMT and liver size (r = 0.639; P < .05). Furthermore, CIMT values tended to increase with higher grades of hepatic steatosis; however, the difference between grade 1 and grade 2/3 steatosis was not statistically significant.

Conclusion: In young patients with MAFLD, both the presence and the degree of hepatic steatosis are closely linked to subclinical atherosclerosis. Consequently, CIMT measurements represent a valuable, noninvasive approach for early cardiovascular risk stratification in this demographic.

Cite this article as: Nas N, Sağlık S. Relationship between hepatosteatosis and early atherosclerotic changes in young patients with metabolic dysfunction–associated fatty liver disease. Cerrahpaşa Med J 2026, 50, 0060, doi: 10.5152/cjm.2026.26060.