RESUMO
Evaluation of body fat and its distribution are important because they can predict several risk factors, mainly cardiovascular risk. Imaging techniques have high precision and accuracy for body fat measurement. However, trained personnel are required and the cost is high. Anthropometric indices might be used to evaluate body fat and its distribution in general population. In chronic kidney disease patients, studies have been indicating that overweight status improves survival rates. On the other hand, visceral fat accumulation is associated with inflammatory responses and insulin resistance. This narrative review discusses particularities of fat distribution in metabolic context and the relevance of available methods for abdominal adiposity evaluation in chronic kidney disease and end-stage renal disease patients.