Efficacy of Mediterranean diet in a peculiar case of non-alcoholic steatohepatitis and hypobetalipoproteinemia

Introduction: Apolipoprotein B 100 (apo B-100) is the main structural protein of VLDL (Very Low Density Lipoprotein) and LDL (Low Density Lipoprotein) and the ligand for LDL receptor. Hypobetalipoproteinemia is a genetic disease characterized by decreased secretion of apo B-100 from the liver, low production of VLDL and LDL, and development of fatty liver. In absence of obesity or other metabolic derangement, isolated hepatic fat does not cause hepatic or peripheral insulin resistance. Steatohepatitis, cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma have all been described in subjects with hypobetalipoproteinemia.