Waist Circumference and Mesenteric Fat in Neonates: Negative Correlation
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Objective: To measure mesenteric fat thickness with ultrasound scan in neonates and to assess the correlation with waist circumference.
Methods: Ninety five healthy newborns had the maximum thickness of mesenteric leaves measured by ultrasound examinations of abdomen with an Envisor scanner (Philips Ultrasound, Bothell, Wash) and a L12-5 transducer (Philips Ultrasound). The correlation between the thickness of mesenteric leaves with abdominal waist was calculated.
Results: Maximum thickness of mesenteric leaves ranged from 0.24 to 1.00 mm (x = 0.57 ± 0.17) . There was a significant negative correlation between abdominal waist (AW) and mesenteric fat thickness (r = -0.384; p < 0.001).
Conclusions: Mesenteric fat thickness in newborns is inversely associated with waist circumference. Higher visceral adiposity in neonates may be a protective mechanism from intrauterine growth restriction however this could persist into adulthood life.
Measurement of abdominal circumference in preterm infants.
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