Panniculus, often incorrectly referred to as pannus, is a medical term describing a dense layer of
fatty tissue, consisting of excess subcutaneous fat within the lower abdominal region. Panniculi can form after rapid weight loss, as seen with strict exercise plans—in this case, the abdominal fat is successfully reduced, but excess skin is left behind which hangs loosely over the area. It can be a result of
obesity and can be mistaken for a
tumor or
hernia. Abdominal panniculus 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.
See also
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Intertrigo
Intertrigo refers to a type of inflammatory rash (dermatitis) of the superficial skin that occurs within a person's body folds. These areas are more susceptible to irritation and subsequent infection due to factors that promote skin breakdown such ...
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Panniculus adiposus
The panniculus adiposus is the fatty layer of the subcutaneous tissues, superficial to a deeper vestigial layer of muscle, the panniculus carnosus.McGrath, J.A.; Eady, R.A.; Pope, F.M. (2004). ''Rook's Textbook of Dermatology'' (Seventh Edition). B ...
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Panniculus carnosus
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Weber–Christian disease
References
{{Integumentary system
Skin anatomy