Correlation between neck circumference and hepatic steatosis determined by controlled attenuation parameter

Abstract

Neck circumference is an attractive method for determining metabolic profiles and has many advantages over waist circumference. However, the correlation between neck circumference and hepatic fibrosis has not been evaluated. The aim of this study was to evaluate the correlation between neck circumference and hepatic fibrosis and define the optimal cut-off point for neck circumference to determine hepatic fibrosis. A cross-sectional study (n = 333) was conducted among Thai healthcare workers at Phramongkutklao Hospital who received an annual health maintenance program. Neck circumference was measured at the lower margin of the laryngeal prominence. Fibroscan® with a controlled attenuation parameter was used to measure the degree of hepatic fibrosis and steatosis by an experienced, well-trained operator. In the cross-sectional analysis, it was found that the large circumference of the neck was associated with hepatic fibrosis (r = 0.19, p = .001) and hepatic steatosis (r = 0.58, p < .001). Hepatic fibrosis (r = 0.15, p = .004) and steatosis (r = 0.53, p < .001) were also associated with waist circumference. The neck circumferences of 40 and 34 cm were the best cut-offs for male and female participants, respectively.Neck circumference is closely related to hepatic fibrosis and steatosis, which should be promoted and has a better advantage than waist circumference in the screening of hepatic steatosis.