Abstract

The interest in skinfolds, given the easy accessibility of the subcutaneous layer and its non-invasive nature, has led to a proliferation of skinfold applications and formulae. To abtain data to investigate body composition methods, particularly the use of skinfolds, two separate cadaver dissection studies were undertaken, allowing for the analysis of data from 32 cadavers with more than 2500 data per cadaver. In addition, 40 elderly living subjects of the same age range were compared with the cadaver population and no significant macro-morphological differences were found. The available data have clearly demonstrated that skinfold compressibility is by no means constant. Adipose tissue patterning by assessment of skinfold thickness using calipers and incision confirms significant sex differences but emphasizes the neglected importance of skin thickness. It appears that the best adipose tissue predictors are different from those used in general. Also the problem of estimating body fat content by skinfolds is compounded by the fact that two identical thicknesses of adipose tissue may contain significantly different concentrations of fat. Skinfolds are significantly related to external (subcutaneous) adipose tissue. However, the relation to internal tissue is less evident and the relation with intramuscular adiposity is unknown. Verf.-Referat