Apelin and hepatic steatosis in obese adolescents

OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to evaluate serum apelin levels in obese adolescents and to investigate their association with hepatic steatosis and metabolic risk parameters. METHODS: This prospective case-control study included 75 obese adolescents and 68 age- and sex-matched healthy controls. Anthropometric measurements, biochemical parameters, and serum apelin levels were assessed. Hepatic steatosis was evaluated using ultrasonography. Multivariable logistic regression analysis including age, sex, waist circumference, and serum apelin levels was performed. RESULTS: Serum apelin levels were significantly lower in obese adolescents compared with controls. Although apelin levels tended to be lower in participants with hepatic steatosis, the difference did not reach statistical significance. No significant correlations were observed between apelin levels and insulin resistance, lipid parameters, or liver enzymes. Multivariable analysis did not demonstrate an independent association between apelin levels and hepatic steatosis. CONCLUSIONS: Serum apelin levels were significantly lower in obese adolescents than in healthy controls. Although apelin levels tended to be lower in participants with hepatic steatosis, no independent association was demonstrated in this cohort. Larger prospective studies are needed to clarify the potential relationship between apelin and hepatic steatosis in pediatric obesity.