Human body composition parameters were measured with dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) (Hologic A Inc., Bedford, MA, USA, QDR 4500W). All scans were administered by trained research technicians using standardized procedures recommended by GE-Healthcare. The instrument was calibrated daily. Whole body as well as regional body composition were assessed. Delimiters for regional analysis were determined by standard software (Hologic Inc., Marlborough, MA, USA, S/N 47168 VER. 11.2). Regions of the head, trunk, arms and legs were distinguished with the use of specific anatomic landmarks.
Therefore, for each patient, the following parameters were measured: whole-body fat mass (FM, kg and %), truncal fat mass (TFM, kg and %), appendicular fat mass (AFM), lean mass (kg). Appendicular lean mass (ALM, kg) was determined by summing lean mass measurements of the arms and legs. Fat distribution was assessed by upper body/lower body fat index, calculated as the ratio between upper body fat (head, arms and trunk fat, kg) and lower body fat (leg fat, kg) [30 (link)].
Therefore, for each patient, the following parameters were measured: whole-body fat mass (FM, kg and %), truncal fat mass (TFM, kg and %), appendicular fat mass (AFM), lean mass (kg). Appendicular lean mass (ALM, kg) was determined by summing lean mass measurements of the arms and legs. Fat distribution was assessed by upper body/lower body fat index, calculated as the ratio between upper body fat (head, arms and trunk fat, kg) and lower body fat (leg fat, kg) [30 (link)].
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