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
Obesity
Buildup of intestinal gas, most often caused by blockage or obstruction in the intestines

Images

Related Information

Abdomen - swollen

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.

Review Date: 8/7/2023

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