Comparing weight loss programs for children with fatty liver disease

Comparison Between the Efficacy of Residential and Ambulatory Weight Loss Programs for Pediatric Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease

University Hospital, Ghent · NCT05309863

This study is trying to see if kids with fatty liver disease do better with weight loss programs at home or in a residential setting.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment850 (estimated)
Ages8 Years to 18 Years
SexAll
SponsorUniversity Hospital, Ghent (other)
Drugs / interventionsmethotrexate
Locations3 sites (Ghent, East-Flanders and 2 other locations)
Trial IDNCT05309863 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study investigates the effectiveness of residential versus ambulatory weight loss programs in treating pediatric non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). It focuses on lifestyle modifications, including dietary changes and increased physical activity, as the primary treatment for this condition. The study aims to assess the impact of these interventions on liver health, specifically looking at liver steatosis and fibrosis in obese children and adolescents. By comparing outcomes from different treatment settings, the research seeks to provide insights into the most effective approaches for managing NAFLD in this population.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are obese children and adolescents enrolled in a lifestyle management program for obesity.

Not a fit: Patients with syndromic obesity or other causes of liver disease, as well as those consuming significant amounts of alcohol, may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved treatment strategies for children with fatty liver disease, enhancing their liver health and overall well-being.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown that lifestyle interventions can improve markers of NAFLD, suggesting that this approach may be effective, although the specific comparison of residential versus ambulatory programs is less explored.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Enrolled in the lifestyle management program for obesity in one of the participating centres

Exclusion Criteria:

* Syndromic obesity
* Evidence of liver disease of other causes (viral, auto-immune, genetic)
* Average daily alcohol consumption of \>20g/day
* Unvalid screening Fibroscan
* Treatment with drugs which can induce liver steatosis or fibrosis (e.g. systemic corticosteroids, methotrexate)

Where this trial is running

Ghent, East-Flanders and 2 other locations

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Pediatric Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease, NAFLD, Liver fibrosis, Lifestyle management, Multidisciplinary treatment

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.