Epicardial Fat Volume (CT Quantification) Calculator

Epicardial Fat Volume (CT Quantification): Explanation and Clinical Context Epicardial fat volume (EFV) represents the total volume of adipose tissue located between the myocardium and the visceral layer of the pericardium, quantifiable via non-contrast or contrast-enhanced cardiac CT. EFV is calculated by summing the areas of epicardial fat on each slice (cm²) multiplied by the slice thickness (cm) and the number of slices. This provides an estimate of the total epicardial fat in cm³.

High EFV has been strongly associated with coronary artery disease, metabolic syndrome, atrial fibrillation, and other cardiovascular outcomes. Clinical interpretation uses sex-specific reference ranges, typically <125 cm³ for men and <90 cm³ for women, though ranges may vary depending on population and CT protocol. EFV quantification can improve cardiovascular risk stratification, complementing traditional risk scores and imaging findings.