In fatty infiltration there is no loss of function. The fat infiltrates
the cell, crowding aside the protoplasm. This is largely a normal
process, though fatty degeneration may be associated.
In fatty degeneration the cell loses its structure and is changed into
fatty tissue. Chronic intoxication from infectious diseases, such as
phthisis puerperal fever, typhoid fever, pneumonia and syphilis are the
principal causes. Alcoholism and phosphorous poisoning are other causes.