Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 11, 2026
10:37
Decellularization-Based Quantification of Skeletal Muscle Fatty Infiltration
Published on: June 9, 2023
Gender differences in subcutaneous and perirenal fat distribution
Brian H Eisner1, Javaad Zargooshi, Aaron D Berger
1Department of Urology, GRB 1102, Massachusetts General Hospital, 55 Fruit Street, Boston, MA 02114, USA. beisner@partners.org
Surgical and Radiologic Anatomy : SRA
|July 8, 2010
Summary
Gender influences fat distribution: women have more subcutaneous fat, while men have more perirenal fat. Body mass index (BMI) correlates with subcutaneous fat but not proportionally with perirenal fat, impacting kidney surgery approaches.
Area of Science:
- Urology
- Radiology
- Surgical Oncology
Background:
- Body mass index (BMI) is a known factor affecting surgical outcomes.
- Understanding fat distribution is crucial for surgical planning, particularly in nephrectomy procedures.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between BMI, gender, and the distribution of subcutaneous and perirenal fat.
- To determine how gender influences fat deposition in specific anatomical locations relevant to kidney surgery.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of 123 patients undergoing radical or partial nephrectomy.
- Analysis of preoperative CT scans to measure subcutaneous and perirenal fat.
- Statistical analysis using Student's t test and Pearson's correlation coefficient.
Main Results:
- Females exhibited significantly greater anterior and right posterolateral subcutaneous fat compared to males.
- Males showed greater perirenal fat distribution around both kidneys compared to females.
- BMI strongly correlated with subcutaneous fat but only weakly with perirenal fat.
Conclusions:
- Significant gender-based differences exist in subcutaneous and perirenal fat distribution.
- High BMI in obese patients is associated with increased subcutaneous fat, but not necessarily proportionally increased perirenal fat.
- These findings have implications for surgical approaches and potential complications in kidney surgery.
Related Concept Videos
01:02Hypodermis
The hypodermis (the subcutaneous layer or superficial fascia) is present directly below the dermis. It connects the skin to the underlying fascia (fibrous tissue) of the bones and muscles. It is not strictly a part of the skin, although the border between the hypodermis and dermis can be difficult to distinguish. The hypodermis consists of well-vascularized, loose, areolar connective tissue and adipose tissue, which functions as a mode of fat storage and provides insulation and cushioning for...
01:27Signs of Puberty
Puberty is a critical phase, typically beginning between the ages of 8 and 13 in girls and 9 and 14 in boys, though timing can vary based on genetics, environmental factors, and overall health. This period is characterized by the development of secondary sexual characteristics and the attainment of reproductive potential. Endocrine changes underpin puberty, with hormonal surges of Luteinizing Hormone (LH) and Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH) instigated by Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone (GnRH)...
01:29Cholesterol: Significance and Regulation
Although not a source of energy, cholesterol plays a significant role as a foundational structure for bile salts, steroid hormones, and vitamin D, as well as being a crucial component of plasma membranes. Approximately 15% of blood cholesterol is derived from our diet, with the remainder synthesized from acetyl CoA by the liver and intestines. Cholesterol is eliminated from the body through its conversion into bile salts, which are eventually discarded in the feces.
Considering cholesterol and...
Considering cholesterol and...
01:25Pharmacokinetics in Obese Patients: Drug Absorption and Distribution
Obesity significantly alters the pharmacokinetic processes of drug absorption and distribution, presenting unique challenges in medical treatment. The increased fat tissue and decreased lean muscle in obese individuals can significantly affect how drugs are absorbed into the body and distributed across different tissues. This alteration can lead to variances in the effectiveness and safety of medications, necessitating adjustments in dosing or drug selection for obese patients.One notable...