Estimation of stature and length of limb segments in children and adolescents from whole-body dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry scans.

BACKGROUND

Anthropometric standards vary among different populations, and renewal of these reference values is necessary.

OBJECTIVE

To produce formulae for the assessment of limb segment lengths.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Whole-body dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry scans of 413 Caucasian children and adolescents (170 boys, 243 girls) aged from 6 to 18 years were retrospectively analysed. Body height and the lengths of four long bones (humerus, radius, femur and tibia) were measured. The validity (concurrent validity) and reproducibility (intraobserver reliability) of the measurement technique were tested.

RESULTS

High linear correlations (r > 0.9) were found between the mentioned five longitudinal measures. Corresponding linear regression equations for the most important relationships were derived. The tests of validity and reproducibility revealed a good degree of precision of the applied technique.

CONCLUSION

The reference formulae obtained from the analysis of whole-body DEXA scans will be useful for anthropologists, and forensic and nutrition specialists, as well as for prosthetists and paediatric orthopaedic surgeons.