Association of metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease with coronary artery calcification among Filipino patients in a tertiary hospital in Cebu City
- Author:
Mary Grace S. Nepomuceno
1
;
Michael Albert M. Diy
1
;
Aileen Mae L. Catapang
1
Author Information
- Publication Type:Journal Article
- Keywords: MAFLD; Coronary Artery Calcification
- MeSH: Cardiovascular Diseases; Coronary Artery Disease; Fatty Liver, Alcoholic
- From: Philippine Journal of Internal Medicine 2025;63(1):39-44
- CountryPhilippines
- Language:English
-
Abstract:
BACKGROUND:Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), now known as Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Fatty Liver Disease (MAFLD), is linked to cardiovascular disease. This renaming emphasizes the role of metabolic problems. Coronary artery calcification (CAC) reflects early coronary artery disease, but data on the MAFLD-CAC link is limited.
OBJECTIVE:To demonstrate the association between metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) based on its criteria and coronary artery calcification, as measured by CT CAC score.
METHODS:This single-center retrospective study involved adult Filipino patients who underwent CT CAC scoring between January 2021 and January 2023. Clinical and laboratory data were obtained via review of electronic records.
RESULTS:This study involved 147 patients with an average age of 62 years, primarily females (57.14%), and mostly falling into the Obese-Class I category (31.29%). The most common comorbidities were hypertension (95.24%), dyslipidemia (62.59%), and diabetes mellitus (38.1%). In terms of CAC scores using the CT Agatston method, majority (30.61%) had low calcium buildup (Stage 2 with scores between 1-99). Approximately 26.53% had higher liver fat content with liver HU below 40, while 73.47% had lower liver fat content with HU equal to or greater than 40. Furthermore, 25.17% of patients with fatty livers and other risk factors were diagnosed with MAFLD, while 74.83% were not. The p-value indicated a significant difference in proportions, suggesting a lower proportion of MAFLD among those who had undergone CT CAC scoring. However, the Pearson Chi-Square statistic (4.051) and the p-value (0.256) indicated no statistically significant association between MAFLD and CT CAC.
CONCLUSION:The study found a notably lower proportion of MAFLD diagnoses in patients who underwent CT CAC scoring. Additionally, there was no statistically significant link between MAFLD and CT CAC. - Full text:2025082914163887458pjim 63(1) OArticle 8.pdf
