Skin Fold Thickness in Diabetes Mellitus: A Simple Anthropometric Measurement May Bare the Different Aspects of Adipose Tissue

Introduction: Skin fold thickness measurement provides an estimated size of the subcutaneous fat, which is the layer of subcutaneous tissue and composed of adipocytes. Subcutaneous fat is the major determinant of insulin sensitivity and has a strong association with insulin resistance. However, evidence to predict,the effect of duration of diabetes on skin fold thickness remains unclear. Aim & Objectives: To assess the relation between progression of diabetes and skin fold thickness. Methods: Three consecutive skin fold thickness of biceps, triceps, infra scapular and iliac crest were measured in eighty three Diabetic patients irrespective of disease duration. History related to our study was obtained from the questionnaire. Average of three values was considered for the analysis of data. Results: Patients with the disease duration of <5years and 5-10years had increased skin fold thickness in Infra scapular and iliac crest as compared to biceps and triceps. Skin fold thickness of biceps, triceps, iliac crest and infra scapular were significantly reduced in patients with the disease duration of >10years. Conclusion:Measurement of skin fold thickness is mandatory to identify diabetic patients at risk early to prevent the development of cardiovascular disease and protect them against added complications.