Diagnostic and prognostic value of plasma lipocalin-2 levels in patients with metabolic dysfunction–associated steatotic liver disease

Background Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease, recently better recognised as Metabolic Dysfunction–Associated Steatotic Liver Disease, is the most prevalent form of chronic liver disease at present time. It is estimated to impact 32% of the world's population, hence representing a significant health burden. Aim of the work To assess the significance of plasma Lipocalin-2 (LCN2) levels in the diagnosis and prognosis of NAFLD patients. Patients and methods In this retrospective case–control study we recruited 102 subjects aged between 18 and 70 years. The included participants were split into two study groups. Group I: 51 NAFLD patients (61% men, 39% females) and Group II: 51 healthy controls (51% men and 49% females), for whom plasma LCN2 levels were assessed and correlated with NAFLD fibrosis score, FIB4 and fatty liver index. Results In this study, LCN2 levels in NAFLD patients were significantly greater compared to individuals in the control group ( p