Fatty (Change of) Liver, Not Elsewhere Classified (K76.0)

Name of the Condition

• Common Names: Fatty Liver, Hepatic Steatosis
• Medical Term: Fatty (Change of) Liver, Not Elsewhere Classified

Summary

Fatty liver, also known as hepatic steatosis, is the buildup of fat in liver cells. This condition is common, often asymptomatic, and can sometimes lead to more severe liver issues if not addressed.

Causes

Fatty liver is often linked to:

• Overconsumption of alcohol.
• Obesity and insulin resistance.
• Poor diet high in sugars and fats.
• Certain medications and toxins.

Risk Factors

• Obesity.
• Type 2 diabetes.
• High cholesterol or triglycerides.
• Rapid weight loss.
• Certain genetic disorders.
• Alcohol consumption.

Symptoms

While often asymptomatic, symptoms may include:

• Fatigue.
• Abdominal pain or discomfort.
• Unexplained weight loss.
• Weakness or malaise.

Diagnosis

• Blood Tests: To check liver enzyme levels.
• Imaging: Ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI to detect fat in the liver.
• Liver Biopsy: In some cases, to assess liver damage.

Treatment Options

• Lifestyle modifications: Diet and exercise.
• Medication: To manage underlying conditions like diabetes or high cholesterol.
• Regular monitoring of liver function through blood tests.

Prognosis and Follow-Up

• Typically good with lifestyle changes.
• Regular follow-ups to monitor liver health are essential.
• Early detection prevents progression to more serious liver disease.

Complications

• Liver inflammation and scarring (steatohepatitis).
• Cirrhosis (severe scarring of the liver).
• Liver cancer in severe cases.

Lifestyle & Prevention

• Maintain a healthy diet and weight.
• Regular exercise.
• Moderate or avoid alcohol consumption.
• Regular health screenings for high-risk individuals.

When to Seek Professional Help

• Persistent fatigue.
• Jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes).
• Swelling in the abdomen or legs.

Additional Resources

• American Liver Foundation: liverfoundation.org
• Mayo Clinic: mayoclinic.org
• National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases: niddk.nih.gov

Tips for Medical Coders

• Ensure the condition is specified as "not elsewhere classified" to avoid incorrect categorization.
• Double-check patient records for details about potential alcohol use, as this may alter the coding to a different classification for alcoholic liver disease.