Biochemical parameters and anthropometry predict NAFLD in obese children

The aim of this study was to build a predictive model of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in obese children. Fifty-six obese 10-year-old children underwent blood tests for biochemical measures and magnetic resonance imaging for NAFLD diagnosis. A model combining waist-to-height ratio, HOMA-IR, adiponectin and ALT was very accurate in predicting NAFLD (AUROC = 0.94[95% C.I.: 0.89-0.99], p < 10). When adiponectin was not included in the model, the discrimination accuracy was still good (AUROC = 0.88[95% C.I.: 0.79-0.97], p < 10). In conclusion, a predictive equation combining routinely available variables may allow physicians to identify obese children at the highest risk of NAFLD