Study on the Impact of metabolic associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) on patients with Corona Virus Disease – 2019 (COVID-19)

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Hepatology, Gastroenterology and Infectious Diseases Department, Toukh Fever Hospital, Qalyubia Directorate of Health, Ministry of Health and Population, Egypt

2 Department of Hepatogastroentrology and Infectious Diseases, Al-Azhar University, Egypt

3 Radiology Department, Benha Fever Hospital, Qalyubia Directorate of Health, Ministry of Health and Population, Egypt

4 Clinical Research Unit, Directorate of Health Affairs in Qalyubia, Ministry of Health and Population, Egypt

5 Department of Family Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Sues Canal University, Egypt

Abstract

Purpose: This study aimed to assess the impact of metabolic (dysfunction) associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) on the outcome of patients with COVID-19.
Patients and Methods: This prospective observational study assessed the impact of MAFLD on COVID-19 outcomes in patients treated at Toukh Fever Hospital from January 2022 to February 2023. The study involved adult patients with confirmed COVID-19, excluding those with specific liver-related conditions, and included comprehensive clinical, laboratory, and ultrasonographic assessments. The severity of COVID-19 was evaluated according to the Egyptian protocol, and the diagnosis of MAFLD followed international consensus criteria.
Results: Patients with MAFLD had a higher BMI, a greater prevalence of hypertension and type 2 diabetes, and exhibited unique laboratory findings, including lower hemoglobin and lymphocyte counts, elevated inflammatory markers, and dyslipidemia. The severity of COVID-19 and mortality rates were significantly elevated in patients with MAFLD.
Conclusion: Patients with MAFLD exhibited distinct clinical and laboratory features and were at risk of developing severe COVID-19 and worse outcomes.

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