Sonographic Association Between Fatty Liver And Gall Bladder Stones In Females With Metabolic And Hormonal Risk Factors

Abstract

Background: Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and gallstone disease are increasingly prevalent conditions worldwide, particularly among females with metabolic and hormonal disturbances. Both disorders share common risk factors such as obesity, insulin resistance, dyslipidemia, and hormonal imbalance, suggesting a possible association. However, limited data are available regarding their relationship in females with specific metabolic and endocrine risk factors.

Objective: To determine the sonographic association between fatty liver and gallbladder stones in females with metabolic and hormonal risk factors.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on 220 female patients presenting with metabolic and hormonal risk factors. Data were collected on demographic characteristics, medical history (including diabetes and PCOS), lifestyle factors, and laboratory investigations such as lipid profile. Ultrasound imaging was performed to assess liver status (fatty liver grading) and gallbladder findings (presence or absence of gallstones). Statistical analysis was conducted to assess the association between fatty liver and gallstone disease.

Results: The results indicate that metabolic factors such as diabetes and obesity significantly influence both fatty liver and gallbladder stone formation. Hormonal imbalance represented by FSH/LH ratio also plays a significant role. These findings support the hypothesis that fatty liver and gallbladder stones share common metabolic and hormonal risk factors in females.

Conclusion: The coexistence of fatty liver disease and gallbladder stones reflects an underlying metabolic-hormonal burden, and comprehensive screening of at-risk female populations is strongly recommended to reduce long-term hepatobiliary complications.