Advanced Lung Cancer Inflammation Index ： A Key Predictor of Hepatic Steatosis and Fibrosis Severity

Abstract

Background Inflammation and nutrition are crucial pathogenic mechanisms in Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). The Advanced Lung Cancer Inflammation Index (ALI) effectively reflects the systemic inflammation level and nutritional metabolic status of patients. However, its relationship with hepatic steatosis and hepatic fibrosis remains unclear. The study aimed to provide novel insights into the prevention of hepatic steatosis and hepatic fibrosis by examining the relationship between the ALI and Controlled Attenuation Parameter (CAP) and Liver Stiffness Measurement (LSM). Methods To identify the connection between ALI and hepatic steatosis and hepatic fibrosis, this study utilized descriptive analysis, multivariate linear regression, smooth curve fitting, and threshold effect analysis to investigate data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey conducted in 2017–2020. Results The ALI levels in the NAFLD and Advanced liver fibrosis (AHF) groups were considerably elevated than the control group, with statistical significance (NAFLD: 70.980 vs. 58.680, P < 0.001; AHF: 72.420 vs. 63.360, P < 0.001). Multiple linear regression analyses indicated significant positive associations between ALI and its quartiles with both CAP and LSM levels. There was a positive smooth curve fitting relationship between ALI and the levels of CAP and LSM, with threshold effect inflection points at 88.287 and 98.420, respectively. Conclusion The findings suggest a positive correlation between elevated ALI levels and the levels of CAP and LSM. Maintaining ALI within an appropriate range may help mitigate the prevalence of hepatic steatosis and hepatic fibrosis.