PREVALENCE OF LIVER FIBROSIS IN RELATIVES OF PATIENTS WITH MASLD-RELATED CIRRHOSIS: A STUDY ON DEGREE OF KINSHIP

Abstract

Introduction and Objectives

First-degree relatives of patients with MASLD-related cirrhosis are considered at high risk for liver fibrosis, based on evidence from Europe and the U.S. supporting a strong hereditary component, including genetic polymorphisms linked to fibrosis progression. However, it is unclear whether this risk extends beyond first-degree relatives, especially in Latin American populations.

This study aimed to assess the prevalence of liver fibrosis and associated factors among first-, second-, and third-degree relatives of patients with MASLD-related cirrhosis in Cartagena, Colombia.

Patients and Methods

Patients with MASLD-related cirrhosis were identified from a hepatology clinic, and their relatives were invited for transient elastography (FibroScan) and body composition analysis (InBody 270) after fasting. Only elastography results with an IQR ≤30% and success rate ≥60% were analyzed. All participants underwent physical exams and interviews covering medical history and alcohol use. Those with abnormal elastography (≥7.2 kPa) were referred for hepatology evaluation.

Results

Of 99 relatives included (56 first-degree, 13 second-degree, 30 third-degree), the mean age was 44 years; 32.3% were male. The prevalence of fibrosis was 15.2% overall, with 21.4% in first-degree, 7.7% in second-degree, and 6.7% in third-degree relatives (p > 0.05). Advanced fibrosis (≥10 kPa) was found in five individuals. BMI, visceral fat, total body fat, and waist circumference were associated with fibrosis.

Conclusions

These findings support targeted screening in first-degree relatives and suggest that body composition metrics may help identify at-risk individuals. Further research is needed to clarify familial risk beyond first-degree relatives in Latin American settings.