Scripps Hepatology. Julio Gutierrez, MD, is a hepatologist and gastroenterologist and expert in liver disease. He is well-recognized as an authority in hepatitis B and C (HBV & HCV), fatty liver and alcoholic liver disease. In addition, he specializes in liver cancer, cirrhosis and those who need or had a liver transplant.
Dr. Gutierrez understands the importance of the relationships he has with his patients. Trust is key and Dr. Gutierrez builds that by delivering the best and most advanced care possible. In addition, Dr. Gutierrez discusses the treatment plan with patients and their families which often is the glue that results in patient satisfaction.
Dr. Gutierrez main clinical interest is liver disease, including ultra-rare conditions such as primary biliary cholangitis (PBC), Wilson’s disease, lysosomal acid lipase deficiency (LAL-D) and alpha-1 antitrypsin disease. Additionally, he has clinical interest in ascites, esophageal varices and hepatic encephalopathy. He is also an expert in weight loss and management which aids his patients who are diagnosed with non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). Similarly, Dr. Gutierrez practices addiction medicine with Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) in PWID with hepatitis to deliver the highest-level care.
Research is another passion of Dr. Gutierrez’ and he has over 90 peer-reviewed publications in the field of liver disease. He also participated in the HCV landmark clinical trials while at the Texas Liver Institute using Direct Acting Antivirals (DAAs), which ultimately revolutionized the care of patients with hepatitis C. Currently, Dr. Gutierrez is Principal Investigator on early phase studies of NASH and oversees a national screening campaign for the condition. Dr. Gutierrez also continues to study hepatitis C, hepatocellular carcinoma, and non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) as “liver disease related healthcare disparities” since these disproportionately affect Latinos. He is an internationally renowned speaker and has given hundreds of lectures.
Finally, Dr. Gutierrez enjoys spending time with his two daughters and wife, playing guitar and fishing. He and his family also enjoy traveling and are often visiting his wife’s family in Cartagena, Colombia.