Eur J Anat, 9 (2): 117-124 (2005)

Body composition: Evaluation methods

Aguado Henche S., Gomez Pellico L.

Departamento de Anatomía y Embriología Humana, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Alcalá, 28871 Alcalá de Henares, Madrid, Spain; Departamento de Anatomía y Embriología Humana, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Alcalá, Ctra. Madrid-Barcelona, km. 33.600, E-28871 Alcala de Henares (Madrid), Spain

ABSTRACT Many different techniques have been used since the initiation of the first anthropometric studies. Analysis of body composition is based on different types of body partitioning, ranging from the traditional model, which considers that there are two body compartments, through multicompartmental models. There are essentially two types of analytical methods: direct methods, or those based on cadaver dissection, and indirect or "in vivo" methods. The first techniques used and intended to measure body fat are fundamentally anthropometry and hydrodensometry. Based on the body's electric conductance, bioelectrical impedance is used, but the possibility of measuring the absorption of energy particles by tissues has given way to absorptiometry techniques, first using an isotopic and then a radiological source. Currently, the advantages offered by DXA photonic dual absorptiometry make it the most appropriate and widely-used technique, for measuring body composition in individuals of different ages and sexes.

Keywords: absorptiometry, analytic method, anthropometry, body composition, body fat, compartment model, evaluation, impedance, measurement, review, technique