The second module will take a deep dive into some aspects of MASLD that will serve as the basis for the management that will be discussed in subsequent modules.

First, the pathophysiology of MASLD will be discussed in detail, as it is key to understand both who are at risk and how they need to be treated. Some basic insights in metabolic homeostasis will be discussed in order to have a solid knowledge base to understand the complex interplay between metabolic dysfunction and the liver. Furthermore, the complex link between MASLD and vascular alterations and cardiovascular disease will be thoroughly discussed, again with some basic insights into cardiac function to understand HFpEF and atherosclerotic disease. All this will be linked to the clinical implications it has.

Second, although non-invasive tests are gradually replacing the liver biopsy for many aspects of diagnosis, the liver biopsy has shaped the field, also in terms of treatment, and hence a deep understanding of what the liver biopsy can provide as information and how this can be used at best will be provided. Alternative to the biopsy, several non-invasive tests can be used to diagnose a variety of aspects. This module will not discuss algorithms and thresholds, but will rather discuss the challenges and pitfalls of different modalities and how this should be integrated in the interpretation of data and in management decisions. With workshops, case presentations and open discussions, the knowledge will be translated into clinical practice and provide the participants with a high quality knowledge base for their future practice. 

Academy Organisers:

• Sven Francque
• Luisa Vonghia
• Wilhelmus Kwanten

Please note that the programme is subject to change, and will be updated continuously up to the event.

• To provide a deep dive into MASLD pathophysiology (expert level), supported by some basic insights from endocrinology and cardiology to better understand the systemic and multidirectional nature of the disease.
• To provide a detailed understanding of the liver histological lesions in MASLD and what the biopsy (with standard and more advanced approached) contributes to our understanding.
• To provide a good understanding of the potential and limitations of some non-invasive tests, mainly focusing on liver imaging and other more specialised assessments.
• To translate the knowledge to practical applications in clinic. 

• To have a good understanding of the physiology and pathophysiology of metabolism relative to the pathophysiology of MASLD/MASH. 
• To have a good understanding of the cardiovascular system relative to the pathophysiology of MASLD/MASH.
• To have a detailed knowledge of the pathophysiology of MASLD/MASH at the heart of a complex multidirectional systemic disease and be able to translate that in an understanding of the mechanisms and potential efficacy of therapeutic interventions.
• To have a good understanding of how the disease really looks like under the microscope, how the best information can be retrieved from the biopsy and how the biopsy can be (re)positioned in the diagnostic landscape.
• To develop a knowledge-based approach to the application and interpretation of imaging and other non-invasives in MASLD assessment and acquire a critical idea of their potential and limitations.

• Deep dives beyond the usual superficial information about key concepts that you to make yourself comfortable with if you want to provide high quality care to your patients. 
• Close interaction and open discussion with high level experts, not only hepatologists, but also other relevant disciplines like endocrinology, cardiology, pathology and radiology. 
• Key insights supported by hands-on workshops, case presentations and open discussions with the experts.  

• MD building knowledge and expertise in MASLD to improve clinical management and/or research. 
• Hepatologists, endocrinologists and other disciplines, board-certified or advanced trainees.
• Master in biomedical sciences or other researchers, nurses or other HCP involved in MASLD care.