Health Dictionary
Reliable, easy-to-read patient information on common medical conditions — written in plain language, free of jargon, and grounded in current evidence. Browse the most frequent diagnoses, understand what they mean for everyday life, and learn which steps and questions help you have a focused conversation with your doctor.
Panniculus
Introduction
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, also known as the “FUPA” or “FUVA”) 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
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.