Abdominal girth
Abdominal girth is the measurement of the distance around the abdomen at a specific point. Measurement is most often made at the level of the belly button (navel). Abdominal girth is used to diagnose and monitor the following:
- Buildup of fluid in the abdomen, most often caused by liver failure, heart failure, or any cancer that has spread widely throughout the abdomen
Liver failure
Ascites is the build-up of fluid in the space between the lining of the abdomen and abdominal organs.
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Heart failure is a condition in which the heart is no longer able to pump oxygen-rich blood to the rest of the body efficiently. This causes symptom...
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- Buildup of intestinal gas, most often caused by blockage or obstruction in the intestines
Obstruction in the intestines
Intestinal obstruction is a partial or complete blockage of the bowel. The contents of the intestine cannot pass through it.
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References
Kumar RB, Aronne LJ. Obesity. In: Feldman M, Friedman LS, Brandt LJ, eds. Sleisenger and Fordtran's Gastrointestinal and Liver Disease: Pathophysiology/Diagnosis/Management. 11th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2021:chap 7.
Martin P. Approach to the patient with liver disease. In: Goldman L, Cooney KA, eds. Goldman-Cecil Medicine. 27th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2024:chap 132.
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Abdominal girth measurement - illustration
The measurement of the abdominal girth may be helpful in evaluating central adiposity. Central obesity (“apple shaped” body type) is a risk factor for metabolic syndrome.
Abdominal girth measurement
illustration
Review Date: 8/7/2023
Reviewed By: Michael M. Phillips, MD, Emeritus Professor of Medicine, The George Washington University School of Medicine, Washington, DC. Also reviewed by David C. Dugdale, MD, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.
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