Survey on screening for paediatric non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease in clinical practice in Dutch hospitals

AIM: Non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a highly prevalent liver disease that affects 34% of children with obesity. Besides the liver‐related morbidity, NAFLD also increases the risk of cardiometabolic diseases at adult age. Diverse screening recommendations exist on paediatric NAFLD. The aim of this study was to assess screening practices among paediatricians managing children with obesity in the Netherlands. METHODS: Between 2016 and 2017, an Internet‐based survey was sent to all 167 members of the endocrinology section of the Dutch Paediatricians Society, that includes all paediatricians involved in obesity care. Descriptive statistics (frequencies) were used to analyse responses. RESULTS: In total, 42/167 (25%) of the invited paediatricians responded. Thirty‐six of 42 respondents (86%) screen for NAFLD. One‐third of those do not follow any guideline. Most respondents use ALT as screening tool, with thresholds varying between 21‐80 IU/L. The majority (29/36) indicate they lack guidance on screening and follow‐up. CONCLUSION: In this study sample of Dutch paediatricians, screening for paediatric NAFLD is widely, albeit not universally, performed and in a highly variable way. This underlines the need come to a uniform and comprehensive screening strategy and raise awareness about NAFLD among physicians treating children with obesity.