Regression equation from dual energy X ray absorptiometry (DEXA) for estimating muscle mass segment

Abstract

Anthropometric methods used to estimate muscle mass (MM) do not specify values for body segments, a critical fact for individuals practicing physical activities or clinical diagnosis. In this study, 60 recreational athletes are anthropometrically evaluated and also undergo dual energy X-ray absorptiometry. Linear regression statistics is subsequently used to establish the constants allowing the obtaining of the segment MM. Three equations were obtained, one for the upper members: MMUL = (0.533*FAP) - (0.176*RAP) + (0.42*WP) + (0.282*SRL) - 19,985; a second equation for muscle mass of the lower members: MMLL = (0.186*H) - (0.158*LTTL) - (0.024*LTL) + (0451*LP) - 24.535; and the third one for the muscle mass of the trunk TrMM = (0.026*W) + (0.046*H) + (0.154*TTD) + (0.025*NP) - (0.025*AP) - 5.839. These equations enable getting detailed information on the MM distribution through an easy-to-access and fast technique, such as the anthropometry, from a Gold Standard Method like DEXA.