Reduced FSH Linked to Higher Risk of Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease in the Elderly

The intricate link between follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) levels and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in the ageing population has been a subject of interest for researchers. While multiple studies have delved into this connection, uncertainties linger regarding the impact of elevated FSH on NAFLD risk. A recent investigation sought to shed light on this matter by exploring the correlation between FSH levels and NAFLD in elderly individuals.

A retrospective observational cross-sectional study published in BMC Endocrine Disorders by Xiaoming Li and colleagues, the research spanned from July 2017 to August 2018 and encompassed 455 patients aged over 60 years. The study relied on comprehensive anthropometric measurements and laboratory assessments for each participant. Diagnosis of NAFLD was determined through both sonographic features and the fatty liver index (LFI).

● Among the 455 participants, 200 (43.96%) exhibited NAFLD in ultrasound examinations, while 169 (37.14%) were identified with NAFLD using the LFI.

● The intraclass correlation coefficient between the two diagnostic methods was substantial at 80.4% (P < 0.001).

● Patients with NAFLD on ultrasound showed lower FSH levels (52.68 vs. 61.39 IU/L) along with less favourable metabolic profiles.

● Spearman correlation analysis revealed significant associations between FSH levels and various metabolic parameters, both positive and negative.

● The researchers controlled for potential confounding factors and calculated odds ratios (ORs) of FSH for NAFLD in distinct elderly subgroups: men and women aged 60–70 years and those over 70 years.

● These ORs were found to be 0.937, 0.982, 0.983, and 0.973, respectively, accompanied by corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CIs).

● The results indicated a significant inverse relationship between FSH levels and NAFLD risk.

● The study revealed no noteworthy correlation between FSH and advanced fibrosis when accounting for covariates.

● The OR for advanced fibrosis was 0.979 (95% CI, 0.938–1.022, P = 0.339).

The research findings suggest a potentially crucial role for FSH levels as a risk factor or biomarker for NAFLD in the elderly population. The observed inverse relationship between FSH and NAFLD risk calls for further exploration to understand the underlying mechanisms and potential implications for diagnosis and management strategies.

This study underscores a significant connection between lowered levels of follicle-stimulating hormone and an elevated risk of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease in the elderly. The findings hint at the potential significance of FSH levels as a predictive tool for identifying NAFLD risk in older individuals. As medical professionals continue to explore this relationship, they may gain valuable insights into novel avenues for understanding and addressing NAFLD in the ageing population.

Reference:

Li, X., Xin, N., Guo, T., Wu, Z., Zheng, Y., Lin, L., Li, Q., & Lin, F. (2023). Follicle-stimulating hormone is negatively associated with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease in a Chinese elderly population: a retrospective observational study. BMC Endocrine Disorders, 23(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12902-023-01427-x