Subcutaneous adipose tissue radiodensity: An emerging risk factor for severe COVID-19

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Padilha, Daniela M. H. ; Mendes, Maria C. S. ; Takahashi, Maria E. S. ; Lascala, Fabiana ; Silveira, Marina N. ; Pozzuto, Lara ; Carrilho, Larissa A. O. ; Guerra, Livia D. ; Moreira, Rafaella C. L. ; Branbilla, Sandra R. ; Ramos, Celso Dario ; Carvalheira, Jose B. C.

• Document type: Journal article
• Source: NUTRITION; v. 128, p. 7-pg., 2024-09-14.

Abstract

Background: Adipose tissue radiodensity and metabolic activity may influence COVID-19 outcomes. This study evaluated the association between adipose tissue characteristics and clinical outcomes in COVID-19 patients. Methods: Two retrospective cohorts of hospitalized COVID-19 patients were analyzed. Subcutaneous adipose tissue radiodensity (SATR) and visceral adipose tissue radiodensity were assessed by computed tomography. Fluorine-18-labelled fluorodeoxyglucose PET/computed tomography measured adipose tissue metabolic activity. Associations with mortality, length of stay, ventilation requirement, and complications were examined using regression analyses. Results: High SATR was independently associated with increased mortality risk (OR: 2.70; P = 0.033), longer hospitalization (P < 0.001), higher rates of mechanical ventilation (P = 0.007), and complications: acute kidney injury (P = 0.001), secondary infection (P = 0.007), shock (P = 0.010), and pulmonary embolism (P = 0.011). SATR positively correlated with SAT glucose uptake (r = 0.52) and negatively with leptin levels (r =-0.48). Conclusions: Elevated SATR at COVID-19 diagnosis predicts disease severity and worse outcomes. SATR is a potential prognostic biomarker for acute and chronic inflammatory conditions. (c) 2024 Elsevier Inc. All rights are reserved, including those for text and data mining, AI training, and similar technologies. (AU)

• FAPESP's process: 21/10265-8 - Cancer Theranostics Innovation Center (CancerThera)
• Grantee: Carmino Antonio de Souza
• Support Opportunities: Research Grants - Research, Innovation and Dissemination Centers - RIDC
• FAPESP's process: 22/06239-4 - Comprehensive Characterization of Tumor Genetic, Metabolic, and Inflammatory Profiles in Colorectal Cancer Patients: Insights from Adipose Tissue Analysis
• Grantee: José Barreto Campello Carvalheira
• Support Opportunities: Regular Research Grants