Evaluation of the relationship between steatosis grades and other blood parameters in patients diagnosed with steatosis via ultrasound during periodic health examinations

OZCAN KENDIRLI, M.S. Evaluation of the Relationship Between Steatosis Grades and Other Blood Parameters in Patients Diagnosed with Steatosis via Ultrasound During Periodic Health Examinations, Eskişehir Osmangazi University Faculty of Medicine Department of Family Medicine Medical Specialization Thesis, Eskisehir, 2025. Hepatic steatosis is an increasingly prevalent public health concern that can lead to serious health outcomes due to its typically asymptomatic progression. Early diagnosis plays a critical role in preventing disease progression. This study aimed to assess whether significant differences exist in blood parameters between patients with ultrasonographically confirmed hepatic steatosis and those without, and to evaluate the relationship between the severity of steatosis and various biochemical markers. Additionally, the study sought to explore the potential of routine blood tests in the early identification of hepatic steatosis, thereby facilitating timely imaging and contributing to the evidence base for future research. The study included 479 patients aged 18 years and older who presented to the Family Medicine Clinic of Eskişehir Osmangazi University between January 1, 2022, and January 1, 2024, were diagnosed with hepatic steatosis via abdominal ultrasonography, and had accessible biochemical data from the same period. The findings revealed that hepatic steatosis is a common health issue in the population and is significantly associated with age, body mass index, type 2 diabetes, and various metabolic parameters.As the severity of steatosis increased, corresponding elevations were observed in mean age, BMI, diabetes prevalence, and liver enzyme levels. Biochemical analysis revealed that serum levels of ALT, AST, GGT, ALP, triglycerides, LDL, glucose, HbA1c, and HOMA-IR were significantly correlated with steatosis severity. These findings underscore the potential utility of non-invasive biomarkers in the detection and monitoring of hepatic steatosis. Implementing screening programs and timely interventions- particularly among individuals with established risk factors such as advanced age, obesity, and diabetes- may yield considerable benefits in public health management. Key Words: hepatic steatosis, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease , insulin resistance, body mass index