White blood cell count and abdominal fat distribution in female obese adolescents

The association between abdominal fat distribution and inflammatory markers is currently a subject of debate. Here, we delineate the relationship between white blood cell (WBC) counts and abdominal fat distribution in female obese adolescents. A total of 102 female obese adolescent subjects were analyzed. Anthropometry, WBC count, blood pressure, fasting plasma glucose, lipid profiles, and fasting insulin concentrations were measured. Subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT) and visceral adipose tissue areas were calculated using computed tomography. Mean values of waist circumference (P < .05), total adipose tissue (TAT) (P < .01), and SAT (P < .01) were significantly higher in the group with the higher WBC count. The WBC count was positively related to body mass index, waist circumference, and TAT and SAT areas after adjustment for age and metabolic risk factors (P < .01). Among the WBC components, neutrophils were positively associated with body mass index (P < .01), waist circumference (P < .01), and TAT (P < .05). The WBC count escalated with a graded increase in TAT or SAT (P for trend < .01). Our findings collectively indicate that the WBC count is positively related to abdominal adiposity in female obese adolescents. Moreover, this relationship is more distinguishable with subcutaneous than visceral adiposity.