AASLD Practice Statement on the evaluation and management of metabolic dysfunction–associated steatotic liver disease in children

Given the high prevalence of metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) in children and its distinct epidemiological, clinical, and histopathological differences from adult disease, the American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases (AASLD) commissioned this pediatric-focused evidence-based practice statement. A multidisciplinary writing group—encompassing expertise in pediatric hepatology, gastroenterology, endocrinology, and liver pathology—conducted a comprehensive PubMed literature search for studies published through March 6, 2024, involving pediatric participants (ages 0–18 y) with NAFLD or MASLD. The review addressed epidemiology, pathophysiology, natural history, screening,…