Fatty liver in the elderly

Fatty liver is defined as the accumulation of lipids in hepatocytes exceeding 5% of liver wet weight due to factors such as disease or medication. In normal individuals, lipid content in the liver accounts for 2%-4% of liver wet weight, of which two-thirds are phospholipids, in addition to cholesterol and neutral fats, mainly constituting cell membranes and membranes of other organelles. Most fatty liver cases involve abnormally elevated triglyceride content. According to fat content, fatty liver can be classified into mild (fat content 5%-10%), moderate (fat content 10%-25%), and severe (fat content 25%-50% or >30%) types. Fatty liver is a common clinical phenomenon rather than an independent disease. It is a reversible condition, and early diagnosis with timely treatment can often lead to recovery. In the elderly, reduced basal metabolic rate and poor dietary habits make them more susceptible to fatty liver.