In adulthood, approximately 8% of the fat cells die yearly, they are then replace by new ones. The result of this is that adults develop a constant number of fat cells, this applies to those who gain more weight and those who lose masses of weight. What causes the body weight to rise and fall is the volume of fat cells.
For a doctor incorrect test result could lead to a misdiagnosis witch could lead to the patient getting the wrong kind of help witch could ultimately lead to death.