Abstract
Three-dimensional (3D) infrared scanners, which estimate body composition via measurements of circumference, are gaining popularity. Since participants rotate 360° on a scale in front of a full-length mirror, visual changes in body shape are quickly assessed while numerical values are generated. PURPOSE: The aim of this study is to compare total body fat percentage (BF%) in participants using both the 3D-infrared and dual energy x-ray absorptiometry (DXA) scanner. METHODS: Non-pregnant individuals were invited to participate in total body composition measurements using both the 3D-infrared and DXA scanners within the laboratory. Participants wore the same compression clothing and scanned within 30 minutes of each other. After height and weight were obtained, a whole body DXA scan was performed and analyzed by trained technicians. For the 3D-infrared scan, participants stood on a rotating scale in a standardized position in front of a full-length mirror. Data are expressed as mean±SD, with significance set at p<0.05. RESULTS: Seventy participants (4 females; age=21±5years; weight=96±21kg; height=1.80±0.07m) successfully completed both scans, in a randomized order. Significant difference was noted between the DXA vs. 3D-infrared scans in BF% (23.7±5.1 vs. 19.5±8.6%;p<0.0001). A significant positive correlation was noted between the DXA versus 3D-infrared scan for BF% (r=0.93;p<0.0001). However, the slope of the regression line was not in alignment with the line of identity, with the 3D-infrared scanner underestimating BF% at low levels (<30%) while overestimating BF% at high levels of BF%. The mean difference (Bland-Altman) was 4.2%, with the limits of agreement (LOA) between -4.3% to 12.7%. CONCLUSION: Although the correlation between the 3D-infrared versus DXA scan for BF% was high (87% of variance), the underestimation of BF% in smaller individuals and overestimation of BF% in larger individuals makes the 3D-infrared scanner not suitable for individuals outside of the normal range for BF% (~30%). Therefore, we do not believe the 3D-infrared scanner is a surrogate measure of BF%, compared with the DXA, for lean or obese persons.
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