ASH stands for “alcoholic steatohepatitis.” It is a type of liver disease that occurs in people who drink excessive amounts of alcohol. The liver becomes inflamed and filled with fat, leading to liver damage and scarring (cirrhosis).

NASH stands for “nonalcoholic steatohepatitis.” It is a type of liver disease that occurs in people who do not drink excessive amounts of alcohol. Instead, it is characterized by the buildup of fat in the liver (steatosis), along with inflammation and liver cell damage. This can lead to cirrhosis. It is more common in individuals with risk factors such as obesity, metabolic syndrome, diabetes, and high triglycerides levels.

Steatohepatitis, is a general term for describing both NASH and ASH as well as other condition characterized by inflammation and fat accumulation in the liver cells.

The ASH/NASH/STEATO Profile is a comprehensive diagnostic test designed to assess liver health and detect conditions related to alcoholic steatohepatitis (ASH), non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), and other liver disorders characterised by inflammation and fat accumulation in liver cells. This profile is crucial for evaluating the risk of fibrosis (scarring) in the liver, determining the stage of fibrosis, and identifying advanced liver disease.

By measuring various blood markers and biomarkers, the ASH/NASH/STEATO Profile provides valuable insights into liver function and the extent of liver damage. It aids in the diagnosis, monitoring, and management of liver conditions, enabling doctors to develop appropriate treatment plans and monitor disease progression.

Written by:  Supriya Kulkarni, Lead-Content & Training

Reasons for Undergoing the ASH/NASH/STEATO Profile

There are several reasons why your doctor may recommend undergoing the ASH/NASH/STEATO Profile:

• To assess the risk of fibrosis (scarring) in the liver
• To identify the stage of fibrosis and determine the severity of liver damage
• To diagnose advanced liver disease
• To monitor the progression of liver conditions over time
• To evaluate individuals experiencing symptoms such as abdominal pain, jaundice, or confusion, which may indicate underlying liver problems

List of Parameters Considered During the ASH/NASH/STEATO Profile

The ASH/NASH/STEATO Profile includes a range of blood tests and biomarkers that provide a comprehensive assessment of liver health:

• Alanine Aminotransferase (ALT) and Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST): These liver enzymes are elevated in cases of liver damage or inflammation. In NASH, ALT levels are typically higher than AST, while in ASH, the AST/ALT ratio is usually greater than 1.
• Gamma-Glutamyl Transferase (GGT): This enzyme is also elevated in liver disease and can indicate bile duct disorders or excessive alcohol consumption.
• Bilirubin: High levels of bilirubin can suggest jaundice or severe liver dysfunction.
• Albumin: Low albumin levels may indicate poor liver function.
• Platelet Count: A low platelet count can be associated with advanced liver fibrosis or cirrhosis.
• Fibrosis Markers: These biomarkers help assess the degree of liver fibrosis, which is essential for determining the stage of the disease.

ASH/NASH/STEATO Profile Preparation

Preparing for the ASH/NASH/STEATO Profile involves the following steps:

• Medical History Review: Discuss your health conditions, diet, lifestyle, alcohol consumption, and medication use with your healthcare provider.
• Physical Examination: Your doctor will examine your body for signs of liver disease, such as an enlarged liver or spleen, and calculate your body mass index (BMI).
• Blood Sample Collection: A blood sample will be collected using a standard venipuncture procedure. A tourniquet is applied to the upper arm, and the skin is disinfected before the needle is inserted.

ASH/NASH/STEATO Profile Results & Interpretation

The results of the ASH/NASH/STEATO Profile indicate the presence and severity of liver fibrosis and inflammation:

• Fibrosis Stage: The test measures biomarkers that indicate the degree of fibrosis, which can be graded as mild, moderate, or severe.
• Liver Enzymes: Elevated ALT and AST levels suggest liver damage. An AST/ALT ratio greater than 1 is more indicative of ASH, while a ratio less than 1 is more suggestive of NASH.
• Other Biomarkers: High levels of bilirubin, GGT, and other markers can indicate severe liver dysfunction or inflammation.
• Clinical Correlation: The results should be interpreted in conjunction with clinical symptoms, physical examination findings, and imaging studies to determine the overall health of the liver.

Home Collection for ASH/NASH/STEATO Profile Near You

SimplyCare offers a convenient home sample collection service for the ASH/NASH/STEATO Profile. A trained phlebotomist will come to your doorstep to collect the blood sample, ensuring comfort and safety while maintaining high standards of sample handling and testing accuracy. With timely and reliable results, you can take proactive steps in managing your liver health. SimplyCare’s commitment to accessible healthcare underscores its dedication to providing quality diagnostic solutions conveniently at home.