Comparison of skinfold thicknesses and bioelectrical impedance analysis with dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry for the assessment of body fat in patients on long-term haemodialysis therapy

Body composition assessment in patients with chronic renal failure is of paramount importance since studies have demonstrated the association of protein-energy malnutrition with an increased morbidity and mortality in this population. However, practical and sensible indicators of body compartments are still needed for clinical purposes. Thus, we aimed to evaluate the simple methods of skinfold thicknesses (SKF) and bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA), using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) as a reference method, for the assessment of body fat in patients on long-term haemodialysis therapy.