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Kara Wegermann

Assistant Professor of Medicine
Medicine, Gastroenterology

Overview


My research focuses on genetic predictors of progression in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). I have investigated predictors of clinical progression in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease using the Duke NAFLD clinical database and biorepository. I find the genetic and modifiable risk factors for liver disease fascinating, particularly because of the potential for clinical intervention before cirrhosis or HCC are established.

Current Appointments & Affiliations


Assistant Professor of Medicine · 2024 - Present Medicine, Gastroenterology, Medicine

Recent Publications


The Basics of Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease for Cardiologists: Pathophysiology, Diagnosis, and Treatment.

Journal Article J Am Coll Cardiol · November 18, 2025 Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) is now recognized as a multisystem disease closely linked to cardiovascular disease, which is the leading cause of death in this population. MASLD and cardiovascular disease share overlapping ... Full text Link to item Cite

Incident heart failure is common and underrecognized in patients with biopsy-proven metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease.

Journal Article Eur J Heart Fail · November 2025 AIMS: Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) is associated with heart failure (HF), independent of shared risk factors. Our aim was to describe the incidence of HF in patients with biopsy-proven MASLD. METHODS AND RESULTS: We foll ... Full text Link to item Cite
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Recent Grants


The Southeastern Liver Health Cohort Study

ResearchCo Investigator · Awarded by North Carolina State University · 2023 - 2027

Prediction and Prevention of Hepatic Decompensation in Patients with Cirrhosis

Clinical TrialCo Investigator · Awarded by National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases · 2021 - 2026

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Education, Training & Certifications


Harvard Medical School · 2014 M.D.