In short
MASH is the active, inflamed form of MASLD. The fat is now harming liver cells, and over years this can cause scarring.
Most people with MASLD have fat alone. In some, the fat triggers inflammation and cell injury. This is MASH: metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (old name: NASH).
MASH matters because it can lead to fibrosis (scarring). Scarring is graded from F0 (none) to F4 (cirrhosis).
You cannot tell MASLD from MASH by symptoms. Blood-test scores and liver stiffness scans help doctors judge the risk.
Related questions
Sources
- Rinella ME, et al. A multisociety Delphi consensus statement on new fatty liver disease nomenclature. J Hepatol 2023;79:1542–56. Link
- EASL–EASD–EASO Clinical Practice Guidelines on the management of MASLD. J Hepatol 2024;81:492–542. Link
Last updated 2026-10-03. Based on international and Saudi guidelines. Education only: it does not replace your doctor. Read the disclaimer.