Evaluation of the relationship between visceral obesity and abdominal aorta calcified plaques with computed tomography

Abstract

Aims: In this study, we aimed to investigate the relationship between the development of calcified plaques in the abdominal aorta and the amount and distribution of abdominal fat tissue. Methods: Between September 2021 and April 2024, we selected 69 patients with calcified plaques in the abdominal aorta and 165 control patients who underwent non-contrast abdominal computed tomography for suspected ureterorenal stones. Demographic characteristics, clinical features, subcutaneous, visceral, and total fat tissue areas, their ratios, and the diameter of the abdominal aorta lumen were recorded. Results: Patients with abdominal aortic calcified plaques showed significantly higher visceral fat area, visceral fat ratio, hypertension, diabetes, and hepatosteatosis. In contrast, no significant differences were found between the two groups regarding height, weight, body-mass index, and total fat tissue area. Additionally, patients with aortic wall calcification had significantly larger aortic lumen diameters compared to those without. Conclusion: Calcified atherosclerotic plaques in the abdominal aorta are particularly associated with visceral fat area.