Panniculus
Panniculus is a medical term describing a dense layer of fatty tissue growth, usually in the abdominal cavity.[1] It can be a result of morbid obesity and can be mistaken for a tumor or hernia. Abdominal panniculus (the "apron" in layman's terms) can be removed during abdominal panniculectomy, a type of abdominoplasty. A panniculus can also be the result of loose tissues after pregnancy or massive weight loss.[2]
Grading of abdominal panniculus
- Grade 1
- Panniculus barely covers the hairline and mons pubis but not the genitalia.
- Grade 2
- Extends to cover the genitalia.
- Grade 3
- Extends to cover the upper thigh
- Grade 4
- Extends to cover the mid thigh.
- Grade 5
- Extends to cover the knees or beyond.