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Review
. 2003 Jan;11(1):5-16.
doi: 10.1038/oby.2003.3.

Adipose tissue quantification by imaging methods: a proposed classification

Wei Shen  1 , ZiMian Wang, Mark Punyanita, Jianbo Lei, Ahmet Sinav, John G Kral, Celina Imielinska, Robert Ross, Steven B Heymsfield
Affiliations
Review

Adipose tissue quantification by imaging methods: a proposed classification

Wei Shen et al. Obes Res. 2003 Jan.

Abstract

Recent advances in imaging techniques and understanding of differences in the molecular biology of adipose tissue has rendered classical anatomy obsolete, requiring a new classification of the topography of adipose tissue. Adipose tissue is one of the largest body compartments, yet a classification that defines specific adipose tissue depots based on their anatomic location and related functions is lacking. The absence of an accepted taxonomy poses problems for investigators studying adipose tissue topography and its functional correlates. The aim of this review was to critically examine the literature on imaging of whole body and regional adipose tissue and to create the first systematic classification of adipose tissue topography. Adipose tissue terminology was examined in over 100 original publications. Our analysis revealed inconsistencies in the use of specific definitions, especially for the compartment termed "visceral" adipose tissue. This analysis leads us to propose an updated classification of total body and regional adipose tissue, providing a well-defined basis for correlating imaging studies of specific adipose tissue depots with molecular processes.

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Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1
The relationship between chemical fat (or lipid) and adipose tissue.
Figure 2
Figure 2
Abdominal axial CT scans of an obese (A) and a thin subject (B). Subcutaneous adipose tissue is divided into superficial and deep subcutaneous adipose tissue by a fascial plane, as indicated by the white arrows.
Figure 3
Figure 3
(A) Arrows indicate the fascial planes separating perimuscular from subcutaneous adipose tissue as observed on an axial leg typical resolution MRI scan. (B) Arrows indicate the fascial planes separating perimuscular from subcutaneous adipose tissue as observed on an axial lower leg high resolution MRI scan. The intramuscular adipose tissue is clearer in image B than in image A.
Figure 4
Figure 4
Arrows indicate the pericardium separating intrapericardial and extrapericardial adipose tissues on a gated cardiac image.
Figure 5
Figure 5
Arrows indicate the fascial planes separating pararenal from adjacent adipose tissue compartments on a typical resolution axial abdominal MRI scan.
Figure 6
Figure 6
VAT distribution in the Visible Woman. Contiguous areas from 1-mm-thick slices are plotted across the thoracic, abdominal, and pelvic region. Reprinted with permission from the National Library of Medicine.
Figure 7
Figure 7
The two VAT compartments in a coronal section of the Visible Man. Reprinted with permission from the National Library of Medicine.
Figure 8
Figure 8
Main adipose tissue compartments in an axial section of the Visible Man. Reprinted with permission from the National Library of Medicine.
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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