The Role of Primary Care and Noninvasive Testing in the Early Diagnosis of Metabolic-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease (MASLD)

Chronic liver disease is one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Cirrhosis of the liver is the most advanced form of chronic liver disease and the 12th leading cause of death worldwide. The incidence of liver cirrhosis is increasing significantly each year due to the increased prevalence of metabolic syndrome associated with fatty liver disease. Liver biopsy has been traditionally considered the “gold standard” method for the evaluation of tissue lesions (e.g., liver fibrosis in patients with chronic liver disease), and it is still accepted as such. However, it is an invasive and costly method with potential risks for patients. Thus, we decided to evaluate the importance of non-invasive tests (NIT) and the combinations of NIT used for the diagnosis and staging of liver fibrosis in metabolic-associated steatotic liver disease—MASLD—and how the primary care physician is involved in these stages. In this context, primary care physicians will be the first in contact with these patients, who could initiate early, well-targeted treatment to prevent disease progression and complications, which could reduce the number of costly consultations and specialist investigations.