When compared to the TT genotype, C-allele at PNPLA3 rs1010023 (CC and TC genotypes) conferred higher risk to hepatic steatosis in chronic hepatitis B patients (odds ratio (OR) = 1.768, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.027–3.105; P = 0.045) independent of age, gender, and body mass index. The gene discussed is PNPLA3; the disease is chronic hepatitis B virus infection.