Pararenal fat

Pararenal fat is a type of adipose tissue located around the kidneys. It is part of the retroperitoneal space, which contains the kidneys, adrenal glands, pancreas, and other structures. Pararenal fat is divided into two types: anterior pararenal fat and posterior pararenal fat.

Anatomy

The anterior pararenal fat is located between the anterior renal fascia and the posterior layer of the peritoneum. It contains the pancreas, ascending and descending parts of the duodenum, and parts of the colon.

The posterior pararenal fat is located between the posterior renal fascia and the muscles of the posterior abdominal wall. It is a space that is free of any major organs or structures.

Function

Pararenal fat plays several important roles in the body. It provides physical protection for the kidneys and other structures in the retroperitoneal space, acting as a cushion against physical trauma. It also serves as an energy reserve, storing triglycerides that can be metabolized to produce energy when needed.

In addition, pararenal fat may play a role in the regulation of kidney function. Some studies suggest that it may influence the function of the kidneys through the release of adipokines, hormones produced by adipose tissue that can have effects on various body systems.

Clinical significance

Excessive accumulation of pararenal fat, known as pararenal fat pad enlargement or pararenal fat stranding, can be associated with various health conditions. These include obesity, metabolic syndrome, and chronic kidney disease. Pararenal fat stranding can also be a sign of acute renal inflammation or injury.

Pararenal fat thickness, measured using imaging techniques such as ultrasound or computed tomography, can be used as a marker of visceral obesity and metabolic syndrome. It may also be a predictor of cardiovascular risk and kidney disease.

See also

• Perirenal fat
• Retroperitoneal space
• Adipose tissue
• Kidney function