Arm subcutaneous fat

Tela subcutanea membri superioris

Integumentary (skin)Fat & fasciaArmLeft and right

View left in 3D View right in 3D

What it is

The layer of fat between the arm skin and the deep (brachial and antebrachial) fascia, carrying the cephalic and basilic veins and cutaneous nerves.

Function

Insulation, energy storage and a gliding layer over the muscles.

Size

Usually 4–15 mm; thickest over the back of the upper arm

Clinical note

Triceps skinfold thickness, pinched over the back of the upper arm, is a classic field measure of body fat.