Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease Associated with Aortic Valve Sclerosis in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

Abstract

Background: The association of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) with aortic valve
sclerosis (AVS) is gaining prominence in the context of both non-diabetic and type 2 diabetic
populations. While AVS was once dismissed as an incidental echocardiographic observation, it's now recognized as a potential risk factor for adverse cardiovascular outcomes. Concurrently, NAFLD's ramifications extend beyond liver-associated complications, encompassing cardiovascular and renal anomalies. Aims & Objectives: This research aimed to unearth the correlation between NAFLD and AVS in patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus, primarily focusing on the presence or absence of AVS in the context of ultrasonographically diagnosed NAFLD. Methods: A cross-sectional assessment spanning 12 months was undertaken at the Kempegowda Institute of Medical Sciences, Bangalore, including 100 patients diagnosed with both NAFLD and type 2 diabetes. Comprehensive evaluations, encompassing clinical assessments, blood tests, ultrasonography, and 2DECHO, formed the research's backbone. Findings: Among the cohort, 49% demonstrated a normal echocardiogram, while 51% exhibited signs of sclerotic aortic valve. Notably, male gender exhibited a significant correlation with 2D ECHO findings (p=0.046). Lipid profiles showed marked differences, particularly in triglycerides and LDL levels, between the two groups, with p-values less than 0.05. Other parameters showcased minimal variances, but the lipid profile variations were significantly high in the AVS group. Conclusion: The study underscores the tangible link between NAFLD and lipid irregularities in the backdrop of AVS in type 2 diabetic patients. Such findings accentuate the need for vigilant monitoring and targeted interventions for this demographic, given the overarching cardiovascular implications.