Work

#9 - Beyond First-degree Relatives: Exploratory Assessment of Hepatic Fibrosis Risk in Extended Biological Family Networks of Patients With Masld-related Cirrhosis

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Introduction and Objectives Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) has a well-established hereditary component, yet the risk of hepatic fibrosis in extended family networks remains unexplored. This study aimed to explore the prevalence of significant hepatic fibrosis in biological relatives of patients with MASLD-related cirrhosis and to identify associated risk factors. Materials and Methods This exploratory, multicenter, cross-sectional study enrolled 165 biological relatives of 58 index cases with MASLD-related cirrhosis across three hepatology centers. Relatives were classified by coefficient of genetic relationship into first-degree -parents, children, siblings- (n=114) and second/third-degree relatives -grandparents, grandchildren, aunts, uncles, nephews, or nieces - (n=51). Significant hepatic fibrosis was defined as liver stiffness measurement 8.0 kPa by transient elastography. Univariate logistic regression identified associated variables . Results Significant hepatic fibrosis was detected in 8.5% (14/165) of biological relatives, a rate exceeding general population estimates. Abdominal obesity by ATP III criteria was the only independent predictor of significant fibrosis (OR 3.3; 95% CI 1.008–11.19; p=0.049). No significant associations were observed for diabetes mellitus, dyslipidemia, or other cardiometabolic risk factors. Prevalence was comparable between first-degree and second/third-degree relatives (8.8% vs. 7.8%; p=0.84). Conclusions This exploratory study provides preliminary evidence that hepatic fibrosis affects extended family networks of MASLD-related cirrhosis patients at rates exceeding general population estimates, with central adiposity as the primary associated factor. These findings justify adequately powered confirmatory studies incorporating genetic characterization to refine family screening strategies in high-risk population

Source: Annals of Hepatology

DOI: 10.1016/j.aohep.2026.102291