S3528 Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease and Cannabinoids

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, or NAFLD, is comprised of nonalcoholic fatty liver (NAFL) and nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). It is defined by radiologic or histologic evidence of excess fat accumulation in the liver in the absence of alternative etiologies, such as alcohol or hereditary disorders. NAFLD is quickly becoming a worldwide epidemic, with a global prevalence estimated at 25%. CASE DESCRIPTION/METHODS: Treatment of NAFLD mainly consists of weight-loss regimens, but recent emerging evidence suggests that cannabinoids also play an important role in the modulation of NAFLD, and, pending further studies, may have future therapeutic benefits in the management of patients with NAFLD. DISCUSSION: In the following chapter, several studies are reviewed and outlined discussing the benefits and risks of using cannabinoid products in terms of the development and management of NAFLD, as well as the hepatotoxicity of some cannabinoid products, and the implications of using cannabinoid products in transplant patients.