Search for Articles:
Title / Keyword
Author / Affiliation / Email
Journal
Article Type
 
 
Advanced Search
 
Section
Special Issue
Volume
Issue
Number
Page
 
5.5
3.4
Journals
Healthcare
Special Issues
New Advances in Liver Disease Treatment and Care—a Holistic and...
share announcement

New Advances in Liver Disease Treatment and Care—a Holistic and Patient-Centered Approach

A special issue of Healthcare (ISSN 2227-9032).

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 18 September 2026 | Viewed by 2955

Editor

Dr. Lea Ladegaard Grønkjaer

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Department of Gastroenterology, University Hospital of South Denmark, Finsensgade 35, 6700 Esbjerg, Denmark
Interests: cirrhosis; liver diseases; mental health; nursing; palliative and supportive care; stigmatization; quality of life

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

A holistic and patient-centered approach to new advances in liver disease treatment and care forms the foundation of this Special Issue, which aims to highlight the latest research and innovations in the field of hepatology. Liver diseases—ranging from alcohol-related, autoimmune, and viral conditions to metabolic dysfunction-associated liver disease, cirrhosis, and liver cancer—remain a major global health concern. Despite advancements in diagnostics and treatment, there is a growing need for more holistic, patient-centered approaches.

This Special Issue invites contributions that explore innovative and interdisciplinary strategies in the treatment and care of liver disease across all stages and etiologies. Aligned with the scope of Healthcare, we particularly welcome research that advances understanding of clinical practice, care models, health systems, and patient outcomes.

Submissions may include all types of original research based on small or large sample sizes and reviews, including but not limited to descriptive, intervention, observational, and qualitative designs. Topics may span medical and nursing care, mental health, patient education, palliative and supportive care, rehabilitation, technology, and culturally adapted care approaches—as well as other methodologies that provide valuable insights into the lived experience of people with liver disease.

We hope this Special Issue will serve as a platform to strengthen the bridge between research, clinical practice, and patient experience and foster a deeper understanding of how care for liver disease can evolve to be more holistic, equitable, and effective.

We look forward to receiving your contributions.

Dr. Lea Ladegaard Grønkjaer
Guest Editor

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 250 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for assessment.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-anonymized peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Healthcare is an international peer-reviewed open access semimonthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2700 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • cirrhosis
  • liver diseases
  • mental health
  • nursing
  • palliative and supportive care
  • patient education
  • rehabilitation
  • stigmatization
  • technology
  • quality of life

Benefits of Publishing in a Special Issue

  • Ease of navigation: Grouping papers by topic helps scholars navigate broad scope journals more efficiently.
  • Greater discoverability: Special Issues support the reach and impact of scientific research. Articles in Special Issues are more discoverable and cited more frequently.
  • Expansion of research network: Special Issues facilitate connections among authors, fostering scientific collaborations.
  • External promotion: Articles in Special Issues are often promoted through the journal's social media, increasing their visibility.
  • Reprint: MDPI Books provides the opportunity to republish successful Special Issues in book format, both online and in print.

Further information on MDPI's Special Issue policies can be found here.

Published Papers (4 papers)

Download All Papers
Order results
Result details
Show export options expand_more Show export options expand_less
Select all
Export citation of selected articles as:

Research

26 pages, 1716 KB  
Article
Lived Experience, Concerns, and Support Needs of Adults with Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease (MASLD): A Qualitative Study
by Sue Shea Wynyard, Lou Atkinson, Chris Kite, Christos Lionis, Harpal S. Randeva and Ioannis Kyrou
Healthcare 2026, 14(16), 2569; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare14162569 - 17 Aug 2026
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) is caused by excessive fat accumulation in the liver (steatosis) and affects approximately 38% of adults globally. MASLD may progress from simple steatosis to fibrosis and cirrhosis and is closely related to other cardio-metabolic conditions [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) is caused by excessive fat accumulation in the liver (steatosis) and affects approximately 38% of adults globally. MASLD may progress from simple steatosis to fibrosis and cirrhosis and is closely related to other cardio-metabolic conditions (e.g., obesity and type 2 diabetes), posing a risk factor for cardiovascular disease. Currently, lifestyle modification and weight reduction remain the main initial treatment options. Existing data suggest that there is low awareness among patients regarding MASLD diagnosis and its subsequent management. Therefore, this study aimed to develop a rich understanding of the lived experiences, concerns, and support needs of adults with MASLD. Methods: A qualitative design was applied, utilizing semi-structured interviews. Adults living with MASLD were invited to talk about their diagnosis and discuss their lived experiences. Participants were interviewed by telephone or video call, and each interview was transcribed and analyzed with a reflexive thematic analysis approach. Results: Twenty-five adults with MASLD (age range: 24–79 years; 40% men) were interviewed. The emergent key themes related to communication and emotions at diagnosis; independently seeking further information; lived experiences post-diagnosis; support needs; and future concerns. Many participants reported receiving the diagnosis incidentally, and a number of issues were raised regarding lack of clarity at the point of diagnosis. Additional concerns included information obtainable via the internet, symptoms, social relationships, stigma, and lifestyle modification. Future anxieties related mainly to fears of disease progression, while support needs were predominantly focused on information and follow-up. Conclusions: The concerns and support needs identified by this study highlight key issues/themes that should inform education and support initiatives by relevant healthcare services aiming to improve the lived experiences and holistic management of adults with MASLD. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Advances in Liver Disease Treatment and Care—a Holistic and Patient-Centered Approach)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

18 pages, 679 KB  
Article
Becoming a Different Person: Living with Hepatic Encephalopathy as a Condition in Everyday Life—A Qualitative Explorative Study
by Marie Louise S. Hamberg, Rikke Parsberg Werge, Susanne Vahr Lauridsen and Thora Skodshøj Thomsen
Healthcare 2026, 14(7), 874; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare14070874 - 28 Mar 2026
Viewed by 730
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Patients with liver cirrhosis experience a high symptom burden and low Health-Related Quality of Life (HR-QoL). Hepatic encephalopathy (HE) occurs in 75% of patients with cirrhosis but is sparsely described from the patient’s perspective. Due to recurrent cognitive impairment, a marginalized diagnosis, [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Patients with liver cirrhosis experience a high symptom burden and low Health-Related Quality of Life (HR-QoL). Hepatic encephalopathy (HE) occurs in 75% of patients with cirrhosis but is sparsely described from the patient’s perspective. Due to recurrent cognitive impairment, a marginalized diagnosis, and a healthcare discourse emphasizing involvement and self-responsibility, these patients appear vulnerable when navigating a complex healthcare system. This study aims to explore how patients with chronic liver disease experience living with HE as a recurring condition, and how these patients are met by healthcare professionals (HCPs). Methods: Eight semi-structured interviews were conducted with four patients and four HCPs. Data were analyzed thematically following Braun and Clarke’s six-step analysis within the framework of Interpretive Description. The study was reported according to COREQ Guidelines. Results: The overarching theme “Becoming a different person” captured the profound identity changes experienced by patients. Three main themes emerged: 1. change and loss—in identity and self-understanding, in relationships, in relation to losing control, and in relation to experiencing isolation; 2. new paths—mental and practical alternative strategies; 3. HE in clinical encounters—requiring empathy, flexibility, and continuity. Stigma related to cirrhosis and its association with alcohol further intensified patients’ vulnerability. Conclusions: HE is experienced as a transformative and isolating condition, deeply affecting patients’ autonomy and social roles through vulnerability. The clinical encounter is shaped by the cognitive impairment due to HE, requiring tailored and sensitive care. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Advances in Liver Disease Treatment and Care—a Holistic and Patient-Centered Approach)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

18 pages, 584 KB  
Article
Distinct Patterns of Dyadic Mental Health in Patients with End-Stage Liver Disease and Their Care Partners
by Lissi Hansen, Karen S. Lyons, Nathan F. Dieckmann, Michael F. Chang, Shirin O. Hiatt, Susan J. Rosenkranz and Christopher S. Lee
Healthcare 2026, 14(5), 645; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare14050645 - 4 Mar 2026
Viewed by 667
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Little research has examined changes over time in mental health within end-stage liver disease (ESLD) patient–care partner dyads. Therefore, the aim of this observational study was to identify patterns of dyadic mental health over time in a sample of ESLD dyads [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Little research has examined changes over time in mental health within end-stage liver disease (ESLD) patient–care partner dyads. Therefore, the aim of this observational study was to identify patterns of dyadic mental health over time in a sample of ESLD dyads and associations with individual- and dyadic-level characteristics. Methods: Adult men and women with ESLD and their care partners were recruited at liver clinics at two healthcare centers in the U.S. Pacific Northwest. Survey data were collected at the time of study enrollment and at 3, 6, 9, and 12 months. Patients and care partners completed the Mishel Uncertainty in Illness Scale, the Multidimensional Perceived Social Support Scale, the Mutuality Scale, the Short-Form Health Survey, and one religiosity item. Standard summary statistics and multilevel and latent growth mixture modeling were used to analyze the data. Results: In total, 186 dyads were included in the analyses, which revealed three distinct patterns of dyadic mental health: “disparate: patient better” (n = 47 [25.3%]), “shared mental health” (n = 76 [40.86%]), and “disparate: care partner better” (n = 63 [33.87%]). Significant characteristics associated with the patterns included care-related strain, uncertainty, relationship quality, and social support. Conclusions: Clinical implications include greater attention to both members of the dyad, with particular attention to low levels of mental health in patients or care partners as identified by the different patterns. Future research should employ a dyadic approach to address the prevalence of characteristics and identify others to improve the mental health of both members of the dyad. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Advances in Liver Disease Treatment and Care—a Holistic and Patient-Centered Approach)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

13 pages, 654 KB  
Article
Patients’ Experience of Stigma as the Hidden Burden of Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease: A Descriptive Qualitative Study with Thematic Analysis
by Johanne Lisa Jensen-LeBlanc, Pernille Andreassen, Mette Munk Lauridsen and Lea Ladegaard Grønkjær
Healthcare 2026, 14(5), 579; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare14050579 - 25 Feb 2026
Viewed by 772
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) is the most prevalent liver disease globally, closely associated with obesity and metabolic syndrome. Despite its clinical significance, patients frequently experience stigmatization from society, healthcare professionals, and family, which may exacerbate psychological distress and hinder [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) is the most prevalent liver disease globally, closely associated with obesity and metabolic syndrome. Despite its clinical significance, patients frequently experience stigmatization from society, healthcare professionals, and family, which may exacerbate psychological distress and hinder effective care. This study aims to explore how patients living with MASLD experience and interpret different dimensions of stigma. By examining stigma across healthcare, social, and personal contexts, the study offers insights into the hidden psychosocial burden of MASLD and may inform approaches to reduce stigmatization and promote more patient-centered and equitable care. Methods: Between 19 November 2024 and 6 February 2025, 23 adults diagnosed with MASLD (21 women, aged 35–70+ years) completed an anonymous online questionnaire comprising 4 demographic questions and 11 open-ended questions regarding their experiences of stigma, its emotional and social impact, and strategies for managing these experiences. Responses were analyzed thematically using Braun and Clarke’s six-phase framework to identify key domains. Results: Three overarching themes emerged: (1) Diagnosis, Symptoms, and Medical Experiences; (2) Emotional and Social Impact; and (3) Coping Strategies and Advocacy. Most participants reported incidental diagnosis, limited or conflicting medical guidance, and feeling blamed for lifestyle choices. Several participants described anxiety and depressive symptoms, while many reported social withdrawal and self-blame, illustrating the interplay of structural, public, and self-stigma. Coping strategies included peer support, self-education, and advocacy, yet participants emphasized that lifestyle changes remained challenging without professional guidance. Many expressed a need for holistic care addressing both medical and psychosocial needs. Conclusions: Stigma profoundly affects patients with MASLD, influencing healthcare experiences, emotional well-being, and social interactions. Interventions should target multiple levels of stigma, incorporating education for healthcare professionals, holistic care models, and accessible support systems. Further research is needed to identify effective strategies for reducing stigmatization and improving equity of care. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Advances in Liver Disease Treatment and Care—a Holistic and Patient-Centered Approach)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

Show export options expand_more Show export options expand_less
Select all
Export citation of selected articles as:
 
Displaying articles 1-4
Back to TopTop