Conditions

Fatty liver disease occurs when excess fat accumulates in liver cells, and it is often associated with obesity, diabetes, and high cholesterol. The most common form is Metabolically Dysfunctional-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease (MASLD), previously known as nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). MASLD is defined by fat in the liver along with at least one metabolic risk factor, such as overweight, hypertension, high triglycerides, or insulin resistance.

When inflammation and cellular damage develop, MASLD can progress to Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatohepatitis (MASH), increasing the risk of fibrosis, cirrhosis, and liver failure. Risk factors include poor diet, physical inactivity, excessive alcohol use, and certain medications.

Diagnosis often involves non-invasive imaging such as FibroScan, which measures liver stiffness and fat content without the need for biopsy. At the Clinical Research Institute of Ohio (CRIOH), patients may qualify for clinical trials that evaluate new therapies to reduce liver fat, control inflammation, and prevent disease progression.

Not interested in a clinical trial but still looking for treatment? Call our dedicated partner, NorthShore Gastroenterology & Endoscopic Centers, at (440) 808-1212 and start your journey toward improved GI health today.

Cirrhosis, also known as scarring of the liver, is the result of long-term liver damage in which healthy liver tissue is replaced by scar tissue, limiting the liver’s ability to function properly. It can develop from several causes, including chronic fatty liver disease, hepatitis infections, excessive alcohol consumption, or autoimmune and genetic liver conditions.

Early symptoms are often subtle and include fatigue, weakness, or loss of appetite. Advanced disease may cause fluid buildup, jaundice, spider angiomas, or bleeding. Because cirrhosis develops gradually, early detection and intervention are critical.

At CRIOH, research efforts focus on identifying treatments that slow or reverse liver fibrosis, reduce complications, and improve overall liver health. Patients participating in cirrhosis-related clinical trials receive careful monitoring and may access investigational therapies like FibroScan  that are not yet available in routine care.

Even if you choose not to participate in a clinical trial, quality treatment options are available. Contact our partner, NorthShore Gastroenterology & Endoscopic Centers, at (440) 808-1212 to support your gastrointestinal health.

Chronic liver disease refers to a broad group of long-term conditions that gradually impair liver function. It can be caused by viral infections, metabolic disorders such as MASLD and MASH, autoimmune disease, or prolonged alcohol use. Persistent inflammation leads to scarring, which can eventually cause cirrhosis if untreated.

Common symptoms include abdominal pain, jaundice, nausea, and fatigue. Diagnosis often requires blood tests and imaging, and sometimes a liver biopsy.

CRIOH conducts clinical trials that investigate innovative diagnostic methods such as FibroScan, therapeutic agents, and disease management strategies to prevent disease progression and enhance patient outcomes.

If a clinical study is not right for you but treatment is still on your mind, our partner NorthShore Gastroenterology & Endoscopic Centers is here to help. Call (440) 808-1212 to begin your path to healthier GI function.

Obesity is a chronic medical condition characterized by excessive fat accumulation in the body. It is primarily diagnosed using Body Mass Index (BMI). Individuals with a BMI of 25–29.9 are considered overweight, and those with a BMI of 30 or higher are classified as obese. Obesity is known to increase the risk of numerous conditions, including fatty liver disease, hypertension, and cardiovascular disease. It is influenced by genetic, behavioral, and environmental factors.

CRIOH’s obesity management research focuses on evaluating causes, interventions, and treatments that support sustainable weight reduction and improve metabolic health.

Not ready for a clinical trial but still need care? Connect with our trusted partner, NorthShore Gastroenterology & Endoscopic Centers, at (440) 808-1212 to take the next step toward better digestive health.