An Investigation Into the Relationships Between Inguinal and Suprapubic Subcutaneous Fat Thicknesses With BMI and Male Fertility Factors Using Ultrasound Imaging

INTRODUCTION: Ultrasound (US) imaging is well-known in determining subcutaneous fat thickness, which is associated with BMI and obesity, and therefore potentially impacts male fertility. Fat growth within the suprapubic area increases scrotal temperature, causing potential damage to sperm. This study investigates the role of US in evaluating a relationship between inguinal and suprapubic subcutaneous fat thicknesses and male fertility indices. MATERIALS AND METHODS: US imaging was utilized to measure the thicknesses of subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT) in the left and right inguinal and suprapubic regions on 88 individuals. Spermatic concentration and motility grades were recorded. Statistical correlation analysis was conducted across the study parameters. RESULTS: Significant correlations (moderate to strong) of BMI against inguinal and suprapubic thicknesses were identified. Furthermore, a non-statistically significant correlation between BMI and sperm metrics (r = -0.4) was observed, while stronger statistically significant correlations were observed between left inguinal thickness (r = -0.6), right inguinal thickness (r = -0.6), and male fertility indices. CONCLUSIONS: Strong correlations between US SAT thickness and spermatic characteristics when compared to BMI highlighting the potential role of US in evaluating male fertility.