Epicardial Fat Thickness: a Promising Cardiovascular Risk Factor that Requires in-Depth Studies

Roberto M Saraiva,Andréa Rodrigues Da Costa

doi:10.36660/ijcs.20200363

Abstract

This issue of the International Journal of Cardiovascular Sciences presents a paper by Castanheira et al. that addresses epicardial fat (EF) thickness in an elderly Portuguese population. They describe the mean values of EF thickness and its correlation with anthropometric, echocardiographic, and clinical variables in these individuals. EF is the visceral adipose tissue located between the myocardium and the visceral pericardium, and commonly found in the atrioventricular and interventricular grooves. EF has several physiological roles, including local effects on the [...]

Highlights

This issue of the International Journal of Cardiovascular Sciences presents a paper by Castanheira et al.[1] that addresses epicardial fat (EF) thickness in an elderly Portuguese population
EF is the visceral adipose tissue located between the myocardium and the visceral pericardium, and commonly found in the atrioventricular and interventricular grooves
EF can be measured non-invasively by echocardiography, and the measurement of EF thickness by 2D echocardiography has been proposed as a surrogate for visceral fat, since it is easier to perform as compared with direct measures such as computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)

Summary

Introduction

This issue of the International Journal of Cardiovascular Sciences presents a paper by Castanheira et al.[1] that addresses epicardial fat (EF) thickness in an elderly Portuguese population. A significant correlation between EF and visceral fat measurements by MRI was demonstrated.[5] Visceral fat accumulation is associated with metabolic syndrome, insulin resistance, impaired glucose tolerance, diabetes mellitus, polycystic ovarian syndrome, and cardiovascular disease.[6] visceral fat is an independent predictor of mortality in males.[7] the non-invasive, cheap and easy assessment of visceral fat, allowed by the EF thickness measurement, is highly interesting.

Results

Conclusion