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Reichelt S, Merle U, Klauss M, Kahlert C, Lurje G, Mehrabi A, Czigany Z. Shining a spotlight on sarcopenia and myosteatosis in liver disease and liver transplantation: Potentially modifiable risk factors with major clinical impact. Liver Int 2024; 44:1483-1512. [PMID: 38554051 DOI: 10.1111/liv.15917] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2023] [Revised: 03/07/2024] [Accepted: 03/17/2024] [Indexed: 04/01/2024]
Abstract
Muscle-wasting and disease-related malnutrition are highly prevalent in patients with chronic liver diseases (CLD) as well as in liver transplant (LT) candidates. Alterations of body composition (BC) such as sarcopenia, myosteatosis and sarcopenic obesity and associated clinical frailty were tied to inferior clinical outcomes including hospital admissions, length of stay, complications, mortality and healthcare costs in various patient cohorts and clinical scenarios. In contrast to other inherent detrimental individual characteristics often observed in these complex patients, such as comorbidities or genetic risk, alterations of the skeletal muscle and malnutrition are considered as potentially modifiable risk factors with a major clinical impact. Even so, there is only limited high-level evidence to show how these pathologies should be addressed in the clinical setting. This review discusses the current state-of-the-art on the role of BC assessment in clinical outcomes in the setting of CLD and LT focusing mainly on sarcopenia and myosteatosis. We focus on the disease-related pathophysiology of BC alterations. Based on these, we address potential therapeutic interventions including nutritional regimens, physical activity, hormone and targeted therapies. In addition to summarizing existing knowledge, this review highlights novel trends, and future perspectives and identifies persisting challenges in addressing BC pathologies in a holistic way, aiming to improve outcomes and quality of life of patients with CLD awaiting or undergoing LT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sophie Reichelt
- Department of General, Visceral, Thoracic and Vascular Surgery, University Hospital of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Uta Merle
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Miriam Klauss
- Department of Radiology, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Christoph Kahlert
- Department of General, Visceral and Transplantation Surgery, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Georg Lurje
- Department of General, Visceral and Transplantation Surgery, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
- Department of Surgery, Campus Charité Mitte | Campus Virchow-Klinikum, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Arianeb Mehrabi
- Department of General, Visceral and Transplantation Surgery, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Zoltan Czigany
- Department of General, Visceral and Transplantation Surgery, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
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Mulinacci G, Pirola L, Gandola D, Ippolito D, Viganò C, Laffusa A, Gallo C, Invernizzi P, Danese S, Massironi S. Ultrasound muscle assessment for sarcopenia detection in inflammatory bowel disease: A prospective study. United European Gastroenterol J 2024; 12:562-573. [PMID: 38549182 PMCID: PMC11176911 DOI: 10.1002/ueg2.12566] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2023] [Accepted: 03/08/2024] [Indexed: 06/15/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sarcopenia is prevalent in patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and impacts surgical and therapeutic outcomes; thus, effective diagnostic tools are needed to assess muscle mass and function in this population. METHODS 153 consecutive patients were included, 100 in the training cohort and 53 in the study cohort. Three superficial muscles (rectus femoris = RF, rectus abdominis = RA, and biceps brachii = BB) were selected for the detection of sarcopenia using muscle ultrasound (US). The training cohort consisted of consecutive patients with or without IBD and was used to evaluate the feasibility and inter- and intra-observer variability of the US measurement. The study cohort consisted of only IBD patients and served to test US diagnostic accuracy. In the latter, muscle US, bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) were used to measure muscle parameters. RESULTS Sarcopenia prevalence in IBD patients was 50%. Muscle US showed excellent inter-rater and intra-rater reliability (ICC >0.95) and a good diagnostic accuracy in detecting sarcopenia compared to BIA with area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROC) values of 80% and 85% for RA and BB thickness, respectively. Moreover, an Ultrasound Muscle Index (USMI) was defined as the sum of the RA, BB, and RF thickness divided by the square of the patient's height, resulting in an AUROC of 81%. Muscle thresholds for sarcopenia were detected, with RA and USMI values correlated with the highest positive (84.3%) and negative (99%) predictive values, respectively. Additionally, the agreement between the US and MRI measurements of RA was excellent (ICC 0.96). CONCLUSIONS The findings of this study emphasize the potential of muscle US as a reliable diagnostic tool for assessing sarcopenia in IBD patients. This research has significant implications for disease management in IBD patients and underscores the need for further investigations to validate these findings in larger cohorts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giacomo Mulinacci
- Division of GastroenterologyFondazione IRCCS San Gerardo dei TintoriMonzaItaly
- Department of Medicine and SurgeryUniversity of Milano BicoccaMilanItaly
| | - Lorena Pirola
- Division of GastroenterologyFondazione IRCCS San Gerardo dei TintoriMonzaItaly
| | - Davide Gandola
- Department of Medicine and SurgeryUniversity of Milano BicoccaMilanItaly
- Division of RadiologyFondazione IRCCS San Gerardo dei TintoriMonzaItaly
| | - Davide Ippolito
- Department of Medicine and SurgeryUniversity of Milano BicoccaMilanItaly
- Division of RadiologyFondazione IRCCS San Gerardo dei TintoriMonzaItaly
| | - Chiara Viganò
- Division of GastroenterologyFondazione IRCCS San Gerardo dei TintoriMonzaItaly
| | - Alice Laffusa
- Division of GastroenterologyFondazione IRCCS San Gerardo dei TintoriMonzaItaly
- Department of Medicine and SurgeryUniversity of Milano BicoccaMilanItaly
| | - Camilla Gallo
- Division of GastroenterologyFondazione IRCCS San Gerardo dei TintoriMonzaItaly
- Department of Medicine and SurgeryUniversity of Milano BicoccaMilanItaly
| | - Pietro Invernizzi
- Division of GastroenterologyFondazione IRCCS San Gerardo dei TintoriMonzaItaly
- Department of Medicine and SurgeryUniversity of Milano BicoccaMilanItaly
| | - Silvio Danese
- Gastroenterology and EndoscopyIRCCS San Raffaele HospitalMilanItaly
- Vita‐Salute San Raffaele UniversityMilanItaly
| | - Sara Massironi
- Division of GastroenterologyFondazione IRCCS San Gerardo dei TintoriMonzaItaly
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Campani F, Li Cavoli TV, Arena U, Marra F, Lynch EN, Campani C. Quick and easy assessment of sarcopenia in cirrhosis: Can ultrasound be the solution? World J Gastroenterol 2024; 30:2287-2293. [PMID: 38813055 PMCID: PMC11130576 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v30.i17.2287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2024] [Revised: 03/16/2024] [Accepted: 04/15/2024] [Indexed: 04/30/2024] Open
Abstract
Cirrhosis is frequently associated with sarcopenia, with reported rates of over 80% in patients with decompensated alcohol-related liver disease. Sarcopenia negatively impacts the prognosis of cirrhotic patients and affects the response to treatment of patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). For these reasons, identifying an easy-to-perform method to assess sarcopenia in is a key element in the optimization of care in this patient population. Assessment of muscle mass by computed tomography is considered the standard of care for the diagnosis of sarcopenia, but exposure to radiation and high costs limit its application in this setting, especially for repeated assessments. We believe that ultrasound, a cheap and harmless technique also used for HCC screening in cirrhotic patients, could have an expanding role in the diagnosis and follow-up of sarcopenia in these patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Campani
- Department of Health Science, University Hospital Careggi, University of Florence, Florence 50134, Italy
| | - Tancredi Vincenzo Li Cavoli
- Internal Medicine and Liver Unit, University Hospital Careggi, University of Florence, Florence 50134, Italy
| | - Umberto Arena
- Internal Medicine and Liver Unit, University Hospital Careggi, University of Florence, Florence 50134, Italy
| | - Fabio Marra
- Internal Medicine and Liver Unit, University Hospital Careggi, University of Florence, Florence 50134, Italy
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence 50134, Italy
| | - Erica Nicola Lynch
- Gastroenterology Research Unit, Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences “Mario Serio”, University of Florence, Florence 50134, Italy
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, Siena 53100, Italy
| | - Claudia Campani
- Internal Medicine and Liver Unit, University Hospital Careggi, University of Florence, Florence 50134, Italy
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence 50134, Italy
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Gao Z, Pang Y, Qin X, Li G, Wang Z, Zhang L, Wang J, Qi N, Li H. Sarcopenia is associated with leukopenia in urothelial carcinoma patients who receive tislelizumab combined with gemcitabine and cisplatin therapy. Int J Clin Oncol 2024; 29:592-601. [PMID: 38514497 PMCID: PMC11043186 DOI: 10.1007/s10147-023-02448-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2023] [Accepted: 11/25/2023] [Indexed: 03/23/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In the era of combination therapy, there has been limited research on body composition. Specific body composition, such as sarcopenia, possesses the potential to serve as a predictive biomarker for toxic effects and clinical response in patients with urothelial carcinoma (UC) undergoing tislelizumab combined with gemcitabine and cisplatin (T + GC). MATERIALS AND METHODS A total of 112 UC patients who received T + GC were selected at the Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University from April 2020 to January 2023. Baseline patient characteristics and detailed hematological parameters were collected using the electronic medical system and laboratory examinations. The computed tomography images of patients were analyzed to calculate psoas muscle mass index (PMI). We evaluated the association between sarcopenia (PMI < 4.5 cm2/m2 in men; PMI < 3.3 cm2/m2 in women) and both hematological toxicity and tumor response. RESULTS Overall, of the 112 patients (65.2% male, median age 56 years), 43 (38.4%) were defined as sarcopenia. Patients with sarcopenia were notably older (p = 0.037), more likely to have hypertension (p = 0.009), and had poorer ECOG-PS (p = 0.027). Patients with sarcopenia were more likely to develop leukopenia (OR 2.969, 95% CI 1.028-8.575, p = 0.044) after receiving at least two cycles of T + GC. However, these significant differences were not observed in thrombocytopenia and anemia. There were no significant differences in the tumor response and grade 3-4 hematological toxicity between patients with sarcopenia and those without sarcopenia. CONCLUSIONS Patients with sarcopenia were more likely to develop leukopenia after receiving T + GC. There were no notable alterations observed in relation to anemia or thrombocytopenia. No significant difference was found between the sarcopenia group and non-sarcopenia group in terms of tumor response and grade 3-4 hematological toxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhimin Gao
- Department of Urology, The Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221000, People's Republic of China
- Graduate School of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221000, People's Republic of China
| | - Yubin Pang
- Graduate School of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221000, People's Republic of China
- Suining People's Hospital, Xuzhou, 221000, People's Republic of China
| | - Xu Qin
- Department of Urology, The Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221000, People's Republic of China
- Graduate School of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221000, People's Republic of China
| | - Gang Li
- Department of Urology, The Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221000, People's Republic of China
- Graduate School of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221000, People's Republic of China
| | - Zewei Wang
- Department of Urology, The Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221000, People's Republic of China
- Graduate School of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221000, People's Republic of China
| | - Lei Zhang
- Department of Urology, The Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221000, People's Republic of China
- Graduate School of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221000, People's Republic of China
| | - Junqi Wang
- Department of Urology, The Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221000, People's Republic of China
| | - Nienie Qi
- Department of Urology, The Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221000, People's Republic of China.
| | - Hailong Li
- Department of Urology, The Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221000, People's Republic of China.
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Okamoto Y, Wakama H, Matsuyama J, Nakamura K, Saika T, Otsuki S, Neo M. The psoas muscle index as a useful predictor of total hip arthroplasty outcomes. Arch Orthop Trauma Surg 2024; 144:1763-1772. [PMID: 38063880 DOI: 10.1007/s00402-023-05146-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2023] [Accepted: 11/11/2023] [Indexed: 03/27/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The aim of this study is to assess the association between the psoas muscle index (PMI) and total hip arthroplasty (THA) outcomes. This is a critical issue as sarcopenia has been associated with poor patient satisfaction post-THA. MATERIALS AND METHODS This was a retrospective case-control study of 205 THAs, with a mean follow-up of 3.6 (range, 2.0-5.5) years. Age, sex, serum immune markers, spinopelvic parameters, PMI (quantified as the cross-sectional area of the psoas, bilaterally, at L3 divided by the individual's height squared), and patient-reported outcomes were compared between patients 'with' (n = 118) and 'without' (n = 87) achievement of a minimum clinically important difference (MCID) improvement in the EuroQol 5-Dimension (EQ-5D), post-THA. Logistic regression and receiver operating characteristic curve analyses were used to identify predictive factors. RESULTS A ≥ MCID improvement in the EQ-5D was associated with the PMI (odds ratio, 0.75; 95% confidence interval, 0.63-0.91; P = 0.028), prognostic nutritional index (odds ratio, 0.85; 95% confidence interval, 0.45-0.94; P = 0.043), and age (odds ratio, 1.09; 95% confidence interval, 1.01-1.18; P = 0.044). After adjusting the PMI threshold to 4.0 cm2/m2 for females and 6.4 cm2/m2 for males, there were significant differences in serum factors (P = 0.041 for albumin and P = 0.016 for a prognostic nutritional index < 40), MCID (P < 0.001 for EQ-5D, P < 0.001 for low back pain, and P = 0.008 for the Hip Disability and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score Joint Replacement score), patient satisfaction (P = 0.003), and T1 pelvic angle (P = 0.030). CONCLUSION The PMI, which is associated with nutritional status and global sagittal spinal deformity, does predict THA outcomes. Therefore, it can be useful when discussing THA expectations with patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoshinori Okamoto
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Osaka Medical and Pharmaceutical University, 2-7 Daigaku-machi, Takatsuki, 569-8686, Japan.
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Saiseikai Ibaraki Hospital, 2-1-45, Mitsukeyama, Ibaraki, 567-0035, Japan.
| | - Hitoshi Wakama
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Osaka Medical and Pharmaceutical University, 2-7 Daigaku-machi, Takatsuki, 569-8686, Japan
| | - Junya Matsuyama
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Osaka Medical and Pharmaceutical University, 2-7 Daigaku-machi, Takatsuki, 569-8686, Japan
| | - Kaito Nakamura
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Osaka Medical and Pharmaceutical University, 2-7 Daigaku-machi, Takatsuki, 569-8686, Japan
| | - Takafumi Saika
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Osaka Medical and Pharmaceutical University, 2-7 Daigaku-machi, Takatsuki, 569-8686, Japan
| | - Shuhei Otsuki
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Osaka Medical and Pharmaceutical University, 2-7 Daigaku-machi, Takatsuki, 569-8686, Japan
| | - Masashi Neo
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Osaka Medical and Pharmaceutical University, 2-7 Daigaku-machi, Takatsuki, 569-8686, Japan
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Esposto G, Borriello R, Galasso L, Termite F, Mignini I, Cerrito L, Ainora ME, Gasbarrini A, Zocco MA. Ultrasound Evaluation of Sarcopenia in Patients with Hepatocellular Carcinoma: A Faster and Easier Way to Detect Patients at Risk. Diagnostics (Basel) 2024; 14:371. [PMID: 38396410 PMCID: PMC10887735 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics14040371] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2023] [Revised: 01/27/2024] [Accepted: 02/06/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
The condition of sarcopenia, defined as a progressive loss of musculoskeletal mass and muscular strength, is very common in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and presents a remarkable association with its prognosis. Thus, the early identification of sarcopenic patients represents one of the potential new approaches in the global assessment of HCC, and there is increasing interest regarding the potential therapeutic implications of this condition. The gold standard for the quantification of muscle mass is magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or computed tomography (CT), but these techniques are not always feasible because of the high-cost equipment needed. A new possibility in sarcopenia identification could be muscle ultrasound examination. The measurement of specific parameters such as the muscle thickness, muscular fascicles length or pennation angle has shown a good correlation with CT or MRI values and a good diagnostic accuracy in the detection of sarcopenia. Recently, these results were also confirmed specifically in patients with chronic liver disease. This review summarizes the role of imaging for the diagnosis of sarcopenia in patients with HCC, focusing on the advantages and disadvantages of the diagnostic techniques currently validated for this aim and the future perspectives for the identification of this condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giorgio Esposto
- CEMAD Digestive Disease Center, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario "A.Gemelli" IRCCS, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 20123 Rome, Italy
| | - Raffaele Borriello
- CEMAD Digestive Disease Center, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario "A.Gemelli" IRCCS, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 20123 Rome, Italy
| | - Linda Galasso
- CEMAD Digestive Disease Center, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario "A.Gemelli" IRCCS, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 20123 Rome, Italy
| | - Fabrizio Termite
- CEMAD Digestive Disease Center, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario "A.Gemelli" IRCCS, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 20123 Rome, Italy
| | - Irene Mignini
- CEMAD Digestive Disease Center, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario "A.Gemelli" IRCCS, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 20123 Rome, Italy
| | - Lucia Cerrito
- CEMAD Digestive Disease Center, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario "A.Gemelli" IRCCS, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 20123 Rome, Italy
| | - Maria Elena Ainora
- CEMAD Digestive Disease Center, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario "A.Gemelli" IRCCS, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 20123 Rome, Italy
| | - Antonio Gasbarrini
- CEMAD Digestive Disease Center, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario "A.Gemelli" IRCCS, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 20123 Rome, Italy
| | - Maria Assunta Zocco
- CEMAD Digestive Disease Center, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario "A.Gemelli" IRCCS, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 20123 Rome, Italy
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Becchetti C, Berzigotti A. Ultrasonography as a diagnostic tool for sarcopenia in patients with cirrhosis: Examining the pros and cons. Eur J Intern Med 2023; 116:27-33. [PMID: 37385916 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejim.2023.06.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2023] [Revised: 06/13/2023] [Accepted: 06/23/2023] [Indexed: 07/01/2023]
Abstract
Sarcopenia has emerged as a significant prognostic factor in liver disease, posing a significant risk to patients in terms of morbidity and mortality. However, the evaluation of skeletal muscle mass and quality remains challenging, as cross-sectional imaging is not a suitable screening tool. In order to better include this crucial variable in the routine risk stratification of patients with chronic liver disease, there is an urgent need for simple and reliable non-invasive diagnostic tools for sarcopenia. Therefore, the use of ultrasound techniques has garnered attention as a promising alternative for detecting sarcopenia and muscle abnormalities. This narrative review aims to provide an overview of the current literature on the use of ultrasound as a diagnostic tool for sarcopenia, with particular focus on patients with cirrhosis, emphasizing its potential limitations and future prospects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Becchetti
- Department of Visceral Surgery and Medicine, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Freiburgstrasse 18, Bern 3010, Switzerland; Hepatology and Gastroenterology Division, ASST Grande Ospedale Metropolitano Niguarda, Niguarda Hospital, Milan, Italy
| | - Annalisa Berzigotti
- Department of Visceral Surgery and Medicine, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Freiburgstrasse 18, Bern 3010, Switzerland; Department of Biomedical Research, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland.
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Dhariwal S, Roy A, Taneja S, Bansal A, Gorsi U, Singh S, De A, Verma N, Premkumar M, Duseja A, Dhiman R, Singh V. Assessment of Sarcopenia Using Muscle Ultrasound in Patients With Cirrhosis and Sarcopenic Obesity (AMUSE STUDY). J Clin Gastroenterol 2023; 57:841-847. [PMID: 35943413 DOI: 10.1097/mcg.0000000000001745] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2022] [Accepted: 06/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/10/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Sarcopenic obesity (SO) marks a confluence of 2 complex entities involving the muscle-liver-adipose tissue axis. Computed tomographic (CT) scan-derived skeletal muscle index (SMI) remains the gold standard for sarcopenia assessment in SO. However, it has intrinsic limitations of cost, radiation, and point of care applicability. We assessed the role of muscle ultrasound (US) in SO. METHODS A total of 52 patients with cirrhosis and obesity were assessed for sarcopenia using SMI. US assessment of thigh and forearm muscles was done to record quadriceps muscle thickness (QMT), quadriceps feather index (QMFI), forearm muscle thickness (FMT), and forearm feather index (FFI), respectively. Evaluated US parameters were correlated with SMI and assessed for diagnostic accuracy using the area under the curve. RESULTS A total of 40 (76.9%) males and 12 (23.1%) females [mean age: 50.9 y (43.8 to 53.5 y)] were included. QMT [0.45 cm/m 2 (0.42 to 0.48 cm/m 2 ) vs. 0.67 cm/m 2 (0.63 to 0.70 cm/m 2 )], QMFI [0.82 cm/m 2 (0.77 to 0.87 cm/m 2 ) vs. 1.12 cm/m 2 (1.06 to 1.19 cm/m 2 )], FMT [0.19 cm/m 2 (0.17 to 0.20 cm/m 2 ) vs. 0.25 cm/m 2 (0.23 to 0.27 cm/m 2 )], and FFI [0.38 cm/m 2 (0.35 to 0.412 cm/m 2 ) vs. 0.47 cm/m 2 (0.44 to 0.50 cm/m 2 )] were significantly lower in patients with SO ( P <0.01). A positive correlation with SMI was seen for all parameters in the entire cohort. The strongest correlation was exhibited by QMT ( r =0.70) and QMFI ( r =0.70) in males. The area under the curve of QMT, QMFI, FMT, and FFI were 0.98 (95% confidence interval: 0.96-1), 0.95 (0.89-1), 0.85 (0.75-0.96), and 0.80 (0.68-0.93), respectively. CONCLUSIONS US-based assessment of sarcopenia has excellent diagnostic accuracy and correlates well with computed tomography-SMI in patients with SO. US may serve as an easy-to-use, point of care tool for assessing sarcopenia in SO with the advantage of repeated sequential assessment.
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Shpoliansky M, Chavhan GB, Zhou A, Ng VL, Kamath BM. A pilot feasibility study of an ultrasound-based tool to assess muscle mass in children with liver disease. Hepatol Commun 2023; 7:e0211. [PMID: 37506186 PMCID: PMC10389755 DOI: 10.1097/hc9.0000000000000211] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2023] [Accepted: 05/22/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sarcopenia is associated with adverse outcomes following liver transplantation, and at-risk children must be identified and prehabilitated. The gold standard for assessing sarcopenia in end-stage liver disease (ESLD) is CT assessment of the total Psoas Muscle Area (tPMA). However, radiation exposure and sedation requirements make this approach impractical for children. The bilateral anterior thigh thickness (BATT) is the cumulative measurement of the rectus femoris and vastus intermedius muscles by ultrasound and has been used to identify sarcopenia in adults. There are no studies assessing muscle mass in children using ultrasound. We hypothesized that measuring BATT with ultrasound in children with ESLD is feasible and is associated with sarcopenia. METHODS A prospective pilot feasibility study of patients with ESLD on the liver transplantation waitlist and age-matched healthy controls. BATT was measured by a single operator using ultrasound. tPMA indices were determined by CT imaging, along with clinical and anthropometric data. RESULTS Thirty children were studied between September 2021 and December 2022, 15 listed patients aged 4-30 months, and 15 controls aged 4-32 months. No major technical challenges or complications were encountered while performing the ultrasounds. Median BATTs of 30.8 mm (interquartile range: 27.9-32.8 mm) versus 32.7 mm (interquartile range: 31.8-36.9 mm) were demonstrated in the ESLD and control groups, respectively, and p = 0.01. A positive correlation (R = 0.603) was demonstrated between BATT and tPMA at the L4-5 level among patients with ESLD. No correlation was observed between BATT and anthropometrics. CONCLUSIONS This study yields novel data on the feasibility of ultrasound to measure mid-thigh thickness in children with ESLD and suggests a correlation between BATT and tPMA, the gold standard for diagnosing sarcopenia. It sets the stage for ultrasound as a simple, noninvasive, and easily repeatable tool for assessing sarcopenia in children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Shpoliansky
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Pediatrics, Hepatology and Nutrition, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Govind B Chavhan
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Diagnostic Imaging, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Alex Zhou
- Department of Diagnostic Imaging, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Vicky L Ng
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Pediatrics, Hepatology and Nutrition, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Binita M Kamath
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Pediatrics, Hepatology and Nutrition, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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10
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Yang H, Wan XX, Ma H, Li Z, Weng L, Xia Y, Zhang XM. Prevalence and mortality risk of low skeletal muscle mass in critically ill patients: an updated systematic review and meta-analysis. Front Nutr 2023; 10:1117558. [PMID: 37252244 PMCID: PMC10213681 DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2023.1117558] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2022] [Accepted: 04/11/2023] [Indexed: 05/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Patients with critical illness often develop low skeletal muscle mass (LSMM) for multiple reasons. Numerous studies have explored the association between LSMM and mortality. The prevalence of LSMM and its association with mortality are unclear. This systematic review and meta-analysis was performed to examine the prevalence and mortality risk of LSMM among critically ill patients. Methods Three internet databases (Embase, PubMed, and Web of Science) were searched by two independent investigators to identify relevant studies. A random-effects model was used to pool the prevalence of LSMM and its association with mortality. The GRADE assessment tool was used to assess the overall quality of evidence. Results In total, 1,582 records were initially identified in our search, and 38 studies involving 6,891 patients were included in the final quantitative analysis. The pooled prevalence of LSMM was 51.0% [95% confidence interval (CI), 44.5-57.5%]. The subgroup analysis showed that the prevalence of LSMM in patients with and without mechanical ventilation was 53.4% (95% CI, 43.2-63.6%) and 48.9% (95% CI, 39.7-58.1%), respectively (P-value for difference = 0.44). The pooled results showed that critically ill patients with LSMM had a higher risk of mortality than those without LSMM, with a pooled odds ratio of 2.35 (95% CI, 1.91-2.89). The subgroup analysis based on the muscle mass assessment tool showed that critically ill patients with LSMM had a higher risk of mortality than those with normal skeletal muscle mass regardless of the different assessment tools used. In addition, the association between LSMM and mortality was statistically significant, independent of the different types of mortality. Conclusion Our study revealed that critically ill patients had a high prevalence of LSMM and that critically ill patients with LSMM had a higher risk of mortality than those without LSMM. However, large-scale and high-quality prospective cohort studies, especially those based on muscle ultrasound, are required to validate these findings. Systematic review registration http://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/, identifier: CRD42022379200.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui Yang
- Department of Nursing, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences-Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Xi-Xi Wan
- Department of Medical Intensive Care Unit, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences-Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Hui Ma
- Department of Medical Intensive Care Unit, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences-Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Zhen Li
- Department of Urology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences-Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Li Weng
- Department of Medical Intensive Care Unit, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences-Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Ying Xia
- Department of Medical Intensive Care Unit, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences-Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Xiao-Ming Zhang
- Department of Nursing, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences-Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Beijing, China
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11
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Body Composition of Patients Undergoing Radical Cystectomy for Bladder Cancer: Sarcopenia, Low Psoas Muscle Index, and Myosteatosis Are Independent Risk Factors for Mortality. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:cancers15061778. [PMID: 36980664 PMCID: PMC10046300 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15061778] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2023] [Revised: 03/02/2023] [Accepted: 03/13/2023] [Indexed: 03/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: We assessed a wide array of body composition parameters to identify those most relevant as prognostic tools for patients undergoing radical cystectomy (RC) due to bladder cancer (BC). Methods: In this retrospective, single-center study, preoperative computed tomography (CT) scans of 657 patients were measured at the level of the 3rd lumbar vertebra (L3) to determine common body composition indices including sarcopenia, myosteatosis, psoas muscle index (PMI), subcutaneous and visceral fat index (SFI and VFI), visceral-to-subcutaneous fat ratio (VSR), and visceral obesity. Predictors of overall survival (OS) and cancer-specific survival (CSS) were identified in univariate and multivariate survival analysis. Results: Sarcopenia and a low PMI were independently associated with shorter OS (Sarcopenia: HR 1.30; 95% CI 1.02–1.66; p = 0.04 and a low PMI: HR 1.32; 95% CI 1.02–1.70; p = 0.03) and CSS (Sarcopenia: HR 1.64; 95% CI 1.19–2.25; p < 0.01 and a low PMI: HR 1.41; 95% CI 1.02–1.96; p = 0.04). Myosteatosis, measured as decreasing average Hounsfield units of skeletal muscle, was an independent risk factor for OS (HR 0.98; 95% CI 0.97–1.00; p = 0.01) and CSS (HR 0.98; 95% CI 0.96–1.00; p < 0.05). The assessed adipose tissue indices were not significant predictors for OS and CSS. Conclusions: Sarcopenia, a low PMI, and myosteatosis are independent predictors for OS and CSS in patients undergoing radical cystectomy for bladder cancer.
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12
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Artru F, Louvet A. Letter: the diagnostic value of ultrasound-based versus CT-based sarcopenia measurement in cirrhosis - authors' reply. Aliment Pharmacol Ther 2023; 57:593-594. [PMID: 36786465 DOI: 10.1111/apt.17398] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2023] [Accepted: 01/10/2023] [Indexed: 02/15/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Florent Artru
- Institute of Liver Studies, King's College Hospital, London, UK.,Service des maladies de l'appareil digestif, Hôpital Claude Huriez, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Lille, Lille, France
| | - Alexandre Louvet
- Service des maladies de l'appareil digestif, Hôpital Claude Huriez, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Lille, Lille, France
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13
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Towey J, Ngonadi C, Rajoriya N, Holt A, Greig C, Armstrong MJ. Protocol for a case-control prospective study to investigate the impact of Hepatic Encephalopathy on Nutritional Intake and Sarcopenia status in patients with end-stage LIVer disease: HENS-LIV study. BMJ Open Gastroenterol 2022; 9:bmjgast-2022-001052. [PMID: 36564096 PMCID: PMC9791380 DOI: 10.1136/bmjgast-2022-001052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2022] [Accepted: 12/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Hepatic encephalopathy (HE) is a debilitating symptom of end-stage liver disease (ESLD), but there remains a paucity of evidence regarding its impact on nutritional status, nutritional intake, compliance with nutritional support and resultant muscle health and function. Malnutrition and sarcopenia are associated with increased morbidity and mortality in patients with ESLD. The aim of the current case-control study is to prospectively investigate the impact of HE on nutritional intake and sarcopenia status in patients with ESLD. METHODS AND ANALYSIS Patients with ESLD, with HE (n=10) and without HE (n=10) will be recruited at the outpatient liver unit, University Hospital Birmingham, UK. All patients will undergo clinical assessment at baseline and again at 6-8 weeks (in-line with their routine clinical follow-up), to assess the impact of HE on reported nutritional intake, nutritional status and sarcopenia/physical functional status. Standard medical, dietetic and home-based exercise physiotherapy care will continue for all participants as determined by their clinical team. Two methods of assessing nutritional intake will include the 24-hour food recall and 3-day food diaries. Assessment of sarcopenia status will be undertaken using anthropometry (mid-arm muscle circumference (MAMC)) and ultrasound imaging of the quadriceps muscle group. Markers of physical function (hand grip strength; chair rise time), frailty (Liver Frailty Index (LFI)), physical activity (accelerometery) and exercise capacity (Duke Activity Status Index (DASI)) will be assessed at both clinic visits. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION The study is approved by Wales Research Ethics Committee 2 and Health Research Authority (REC reference: 21/WA/0216). Recruitment into the study commenced November 2021. The findings will be disseminated through peer-reviewed publications and international presentations. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER RRK7156.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer Towey
- Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Birmingham, UK,University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | | | - Neil Rajoriya
- University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, UK
| | - Andrew Holt
- University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, UK
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14
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Casey P, Alasmar M, McLaughlin J, Ang Y, McPhee J, Heire P, Sultan J. The current use of ultrasound to measure skeletal muscle and its ability to predict clinical outcomes: a systematic review. J Cachexia Sarcopenia Muscle 2022; 13:2298-2309. [PMID: 35851996 PMCID: PMC9530572 DOI: 10.1002/jcsm.13041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2021] [Revised: 03/21/2022] [Accepted: 06/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Quantification and monitoring of lean body mass is an important component of nutrition assessment to determine nutrition status and muscle loss. The negative impact of reduced muscle mass and muscle function is increasingly evident across acute and chronic disease states but is particularly pronounced in patients with cancer. Ultrasound is emerging as a promising tool to directly measure skeletal muscle mass and quality. Unlike other ionizing imaging techniques, ultrasound can be used repeatedly at the bedside and may compliment nutritional risk assessment. This review aims to describe the current use of skeletal muscle ultrasound (SMUS) to measure muscle mass and quality in patients with acute and chronic clinical conditions and its ability to predict functional capacity, severity of malnutrition, hospital admission, and survival. Databases were searched from their inception to August 2021 for full-text articles in English. Relevant articles were included if SMUS was investigated in acute or chronic clinical contexts and correlated with a defined clinical outcome measure. Data were synthesized for narrative review due to heterogeneity between studies. This review analysed 37 studies (3100 patients), which met the inclusion criteria. Most studies (n = 22) were conducted in critical care. The clinical outcomes investigated included functional status at discharge (intensive care unit-acquired weakness), nutritional status, and length of stay. SMUS was also utilized in chronic conditions such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, chronic heart failure, and chronic renal failure to predict hospital readmission and disease severity. Only two studies investigated the use of SMUS in patients with cancer. Of the 37 studies, 28 (76%) found that SMUS (cross-sectional area, muscle thickness, and echointensity) showed significant associations with functional capacity, length of stay, readmission, and survival. There was significant heterogeneity in terms of ultrasound technique and outcome measurement across the included studies. This review highlights that SMUS continues to gain momentum as a potential tool for skeletal muscle assessment and predicting clinically important outcomes. Further work is required to standardize the technique in nutritionally vulnerable patients, such as those with cancer, before SMUS can be widely adopted as a bedside prognostic tool.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrick Casey
- Department of Oesophagogastric Surgery, Salford Royal NHS Foundation Trust, Salford, UK.,Division of Diabetes, Endocrinology and Gastroenterology, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Mohamed Alasmar
- Department of Oesophagogastric Surgery, Salford Royal NHS Foundation Trust, Salford, UK.,Division of Cancer Sciences, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - John McLaughlin
- Division of Diabetes, Endocrinology and Gastroenterology, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK.,Department of Gastroenterology, Salford Royal NHS Foundation Trust, Salford, UK
| | - Yeng Ang
- Division of Diabetes, Endocrinology and Gastroenterology, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK.,Department of Gastroenterology, Salford Royal NHS Foundation Trust, Salford, UK
| | - Jamie McPhee
- Manchester Metropolitan University Institute of Sport, Manchester, UK.,Department of Musculoskeletal Radiology, Salford Royal NHS Foundation Trust, Salford, UK
| | - Priam Heire
- Department of Sport and Exercise Sciences, Musculoskeletal Science and Sports Medicine Research Centre, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester, UK
| | - Javed Sultan
- Department of Oesophagogastric Surgery, Salford Royal NHS Foundation Trust, Salford, UK.,Division of Cancer Sciences, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
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15
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Hentschel F, Schwarz T, Lüth S, Schreyer AG. Psoas muscle index predicts time to rehospitalization in liver cirrhosis: An observational study. Medicine (Baltimore) 2022; 101:e30259. [PMID: 36086704 PMCID: PMC10980440 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000030259] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2022] [Accepted: 07/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Sarcopenia is frequent in liver cirrhosis (LC) where it is associated with morbidity and mortality. However, prognostic scores such as model for end-stage liver disease (MELD), MELD-sodium (MELD-Na), or Child-Turcotte-Pugh (CTP) do not contain sarcopenia as a variable. For this study, we utilized psoas muscle index (PMI) to objectively determine sarcopenia in hospitalized LC patients, and evaluated it as a predictor of time between discharge and readmission in LC. Abdominal computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging scans of 65 consecutive LC patients were retrospectively examined to determine PMI. MELD, MELD-Na, and CTP were calculated from clinical data. PMI was then combined with CTP to form an experimental score: CTP sarcopenia (CTPS). For PMI alone and for each score, correlation with time between discharge and readmission for liver-related complications was calculated. PMI was also tested for correlation with sex, body mass index (BMI), MELD, MELD-Na, and CTP. CTPS was most closely correlated with time to readmission (R = 0.730; P < .001), followed by CTP (R = 0.696; P < .001), MELD-Na (R = 0.405; P = .009), and PMI alone (R = 0.388; P = .01). Correlation with MELD (R = 0.354; P = .05) was lowest. Additionally, there were significant differences in PMI between male and female individuals (5.16 vs 4.54 cm2/m2; P = .04) and in BMI between sarcopenic and nonsarcopenic individuals (29.63 vs 25.88 kg/m2; P = .009). Sarcopenia is an independent short-term prognostic factor in LC. By combining data on sarcopenia with CTP, we created an experimental score that predicts time to readmission better than MELD, MELD-Na, or CTP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Florian Hentschel
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University Medical Center Brandenburg, Brandenburg, Germany
| | - Theresa Schwarz
- Brandenburg Medical School, University Medical Center Brandenburg, Brandenburg, Germany
| | - Stefan Lüth
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University Medical Center Brandenburg, Brandenburg, Germany
| | - Andreas G. Schreyer
- Department of Radiology, University Medical Center Brandenburg, Brandenburg, Germany
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16
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Kremer WM, Labenz C, Kuchen R, Sagoschen I, Bodenstein M, Schreiner O, Wörns MA, Sivanathan V, Weinmann A, Galle PR, Sprinzl MF. Sonographic assessment of low muscle quantity identifies mortality risk during COVID-19: a prospective single-centre study. J Cachexia Sarcopenia Muscle 2022; 13:169-179. [PMID: 34881516 PMCID: PMC8818698 DOI: 10.1002/jcsm.12862] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2021] [Revised: 09/10/2021] [Accepted: 10/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Assessment of muscle quantity by sonographic muscle indices could help identify patients at risk for fatal outcome during coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19). The aim of this study was to explore sonographic muscle indices as predictors of COVID-19 outcome and to test the feasibility of sonographic muscle measurement in an isolation context. METHODS Muscle indices, derived from the psoas muscle or thigh muscles, were quantified by sonography in a cohort of patients without COVID-19 to obtain reference values for low muscle quantity. Gender-specific median of different muscle indices were defined as threshold value for low muscle quantity. The prognostic relevance of low muscle quantity, was prospectively explored in two cohorts of hospitalized COVID-19 patients. Optimal muscle index cutoff values predictive for 30 day mortality during COVID-19 were determined by receiver operating characteristic-area under the curve and Youden index calculation. Muscle quantity and known prognostic factors of COVID-19 were analysed by multivariable log-regression. RESULTS Compared with other muscle indices, the psoas muscle area index (PMAI) showed the most favourable characteristics to predict outcome of COVID-19 disease. Sonographic morphometry of patients without COVID-19 (n = 136) revealed a gender-specific median for PMAI (male: 291.1 mm2 /m2 , female 260.6 mm2 /m2 ) as threshold value of low muscle quantity. Subsequently, COVID-19 patients (Cohort I: n = 58; Cohort II: n = 55) were prospectively assessed by bedside sonography. The studied COVID-19 patients developed a critical course of disease in 22.4% (Cohort I: n = 13/58) and 34.5% (Cohort II: n = 20/55). Mortality rate reached 12.1% (Cohort I: n = 7/58) and 20.0% (Cohort I: n = 11/55) within 30 days of follow up. COVID-19 patients with a PMAI below the gender-specific median showed a higher 30 day mortality in both COVID-19 cohorts (log rank, P < 0.05). The optimal PMAI cutoff value (206 mm2 /m2 ) predicted 30 day mortality of hospitalized COVID-19 patients with a sensitivity of 72% and specificity of 78.5% (receiver operating characteristic-area under the curve: 0.793, 95% confidence interval 0.671-0.914, P = 0.008). Multivariable log-regression analysis of PMAI, age, gender, BMI and comorbidities confirmed an independent association of low PMAI with 30 day mortality of COVID-19 patients (P = 0.018). CONCLUSIONS Sonographic morphometry provides reliable muscle quantification under hygienic precautions and allows risk stratification of patients with COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wolfgang M Kremer
- Department of Internal Medicine I, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg-University, Mainz, Germany
| | - Christian Labenz
- Department of Internal Medicine I, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg-University, Mainz, Germany
| | - Robert Kuchen
- Institute of Medical Biometry, Epidemiology and Informatics of the Johannes Gutenberg-University, Mainz, Germany
| | - Ingo Sagoschen
- Center for Cardiology-Cardiology I, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg-University, Mainz, Germany
| | - Marc Bodenstein
- Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg-University, Mainz, Germany
| | - Oliver Schreiner
- Department of Internal Medicine I, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg-University, Mainz, Germany
| | - Marcus A Wörns
- Department of Internal Medicine I, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg-University, Mainz, Germany
| | - Visvakanth Sivanathan
- Department of Internal Medicine I, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg-University, Mainz, Germany
| | - Arndt Weinmann
- Department of Internal Medicine I, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg-University, Mainz, Germany.,Clinical Registry Unit, Department of Internal Medicine I, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg-University, Mainz, Germany
| | - Peter R Galle
- Department of Internal Medicine I, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg-University, Mainz, Germany
| | - Martin F Sprinzl
- Department of Internal Medicine I, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg-University, Mainz, Germany.,Clinical Registry Unit, Department of Internal Medicine I, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg-University, Mainz, Germany
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17
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Ayorinde T, Panayotova G, Sharma A, Lunsford KE. Clinical and biomarker assessment of frailty in liver transplantation. Curr Opin Organ Transplant 2021; 26:488-497. [PMID: 34343156 PMCID: PMC8446327 DOI: 10.1097/mot.0000000000000911] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Liver cirrhosis results in progressive decline, or frailty, which leads to poor outcomes and decreased survival. Multiple biomarkers and clinical assessment tools for quantifying frailty in liver transplant candidates exist, but a universal scoring protocol is lacking. Criteria vary between studies and correlation with patient outcome is not always clear. This review aims to summarize the pertinent biomarkers and assessment tools of frailty in cirrhosis. RECENT FINDINGS As cirrhosis progresses, the resultant 'frailty' is an inseparable independent predictor of pre and posttransplant mortality. Pro-inflammatory, neuroendocrine, and adipokine factors are dysregulated - leading to paradoxical anorexia and downregulation of orexigenic signals. The resulting catabolic utilization of amino and fatty acids leads to progressive malnutrition and sarcopenia. Both functional and imaging criteria define sarcopenia in cirrhotic patients, and degree of debilitation correlates with mortality. Liver-disease-specific frailty biomarkers and scoring tools are optimal to assess physical dysfunction in cirrhotics to promote early diagnosis and intervention. SUMMARY Liver cirrhosis and resulting frailty are progressive and portend a poor patient prognosis. A comprehensive, validated algorithm for detecting and quantifying frailty specific to liver disease would allow for standardization and facile application in the clinical setting. Early diagnosis is key for timely intervention and improved patient outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tumininu Ayorinde
- Division of Transplant and HPB Surgery, Department of Surgery, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ
| | - Guergana Panayotova
- Division of Transplant and HPB Surgery, Department of Surgery, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ
| | - Aanchal Sharma
- Division of Transplant and HPB Surgery, Department of Surgery, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ
| | - Keri E. Lunsford
- Division of Transplant and HPB Surgery, Department of Surgery, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ
- Center for Immunity and Inflammation, Institute for Infectious and Inflammatory Diseases, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ
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18
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Lai JC, Tandon P, Bernal W, Tapper EB, Ekong U, Dasarathy S, Carey EJ. Malnutrition, Frailty, and Sarcopenia in Patients With Cirrhosis: 2021 Practice Guidance by the American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases. Hepatology 2021; 74:1611-1644. [PMID: 34233031 PMCID: PMC9134787 DOI: 10.1002/hep.32049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 265] [Impact Index Per Article: 88.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2021] [Accepted: 06/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer C Lai
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
| | - Puneeta Tandon
- Division of Gastroenterology (Liver Unit), University of Alberta, Edmonton, Albert, Canada
| | - William Bernal
- Liver Intensive Therapy Unit, Institute of Liver Studies, Kings College Hospital, London, UK
| | - Elliot B Tapper
- Division of Gastroenterology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI
| | - Udeme Ekong
- Georgetown University School of Medicine, Medstar Georgetown Transplant Institute, Washington, DC
| | - Srinivasan Dasarathy
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Inflammation and Immunity, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH
| | - Elizabeth J Carey
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic in Arizona, Phoenix, AZ
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19
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Hari A. Muscular abnormalities in liver cirrhosis. World J Gastroenterol 2021; 27:4862-4878. [PMID: 34447231 PMCID: PMC8371506 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v27.i29.4862] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2021] [Revised: 04/19/2021] [Accepted: 07/19/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Sarcopenia is becoming a well-established player in evaluating patients with chronic liver disease. Data regarding its clinical significance and consequences in the course of liver disease have been growing; many of the data support the idea that it impacts decompensation event frequency, prolonged hospitalization, and mortality, as well as providing the possibility to better prioritize patients on lists awaiting liver transplantation. When assessing the whole clinical scope of the field, which includes malnutrition and frailty, as well as the complete spectrum of muscle mass, strength, and function, it becomes clear that a well-founded approach in everyday clinical practice is essential. In this respect, this article attempts to unveil the most recently published data regarding possible methods and modalities that could be used to diagnose sarcopenia as early as possible, along with the required accuracy and reliability. From the most important field discoveries to data that need further clarification, the merits and weaknesses of the very diverse existing evaluation methods are presented. Finally, a critical overview is given, in an attempt to discern study lines of importance from those that could pose further ambiguity for the theme. The author also poses relevant questions that remain unanswered but are of clinical importance in the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrej Hari
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, General Hospital Celje, Celje 3000, Savinjska, Slovenia
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20
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Williams FR, Milliken D, Lai JC, Armstrong MJ. Assessment of the Frail Patient With End-Stage Liver Disease: A Practical Overview of Sarcopenia, Physical Function, and Disability. Hepatol Commun 2021; 5:923-937. [PMID: 34141980 PMCID: PMC8183168 DOI: 10.1002/hep4.1688] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2020] [Revised: 12/14/2020] [Accepted: 01/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Frailty has emerged as a powerful predictor of clinical outcomes (e.g., decompensation, hospitalization, mortality) in patients with end-stage liver disease (ESLD). It is therefore of paramount importance that all patients with ESLD undergo an assessment of frailty, to support life and death decision making (i.e., candidacy for critical care, transplantation) and aid with prioritization of evolving prehabilitation services (i.e., nutrition, physiotherapy, psychotherapy). This article aims to provide a practical overview of the recent advances in the clinical, radiological, and remote assessment tools of the frail patient with ESLD. Historically, clinicians have incorporated an assessment of frailty using the "end-of-the-bed test" or "eyeball test" into their clinical decision making. However, over the last decade, numerous nonspecific and specific tools have emerged. The current evidence supports the use of a combination of simple, user-friendly, objective measures to first identify frailty in ESLD (notably Clinical Frailty Scale, Liver Frailty Index), followed by a combination of serial tools to assess specifically sarcopenia (i.e., muscle ultrasound), physical function (i.e., chair stands, hand grip strength), functional capacity (i.e., 6-minute walk test), and physical disability (i.e., activities of daily living).
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Affiliation(s)
- Felicity R Williams
- National Institute for Health Research Biomedical Research CenterInstitute of Inflammation and AgeingUniversity of BirminghamBirminghamUnited Kingdom.,Liver Transplant UnitQueen Elizabeth University Hospital BirminghamBirminghamUnited Kingdom
| | - Don Milliken
- Department of AnesthesiologyUniversity of CaliforniaSan FranciscoCAUSA
| | - Jennifer C Lai
- Division of Gastroenterology and HepatologyDepartment of MedicineUniversity of CaliforniaSan FranciscoCAUSA
| | - Matthew J Armstrong
- Liver Transplant UnitQueen Elizabeth University Hospital BirminghamBirminghamUnited Kingdom.,National Institute for Health Research Biomedical Research CenterCenter for Liver ResearchUniversity of BirminghamBirminghamUnited Kingdom
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21
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Marasco G, Dajti E, Ravaioli F, Brocchi S, Rossini B, Alemanni LV, Peta G, Bartalena L, Golfieri R, Festi D, Colecchia A, Renzulli M. Clinical impact of sarcopenia assessment in patients with liver cirrhosis. Expert Rev Gastroenterol Hepatol 2021; 15:377-388. [PMID: 33196344 DOI: 10.1080/17474124.2021.1848542] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Introduction: Sarcopenia is defined as loss of skeletal muscle mass, strength, and function, and it is associated with increased morbidity and mortality in patients with chronic liver disease.Areas covered: The aim of this review is to provide a detailed report on the pathophysiological mechanisms underlying sarcopenia in cirrhotic patients, the several imaging methods available for the assessment of sarcopenia and the clinical studies evaluating the prognostic role of sarcopenia presence in cirrhotic patients.Expert opinion: Sarcopenia pathogenesis is complex and multifaceted, as chronic catabolic conditions, increased energy expenditure, reduced appetite, side effects of multiple therapies, alterations in circulating levels of hormones, low protein synthesis, presence of ascites or portosystemic shunts are all factors contributing to muscle atrophy in cirrhotic patients. Computed tomography scan is the most validated method to evaluate muscle mass and quality. Sarcopenia is associated with a higher rate waitlist mortality, hepatic encephalopathy, and lower quality of life in patients with liver cirrhosis. Future studies should make an effort to unify and validate liver disease-specific cutoffs for the definition of sarcopenia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giovanni Marasco
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences (DIMEC), University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Elton Dajti
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences (DIMEC), University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Federico Ravaioli
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences (DIMEC), University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Stefano Brocchi
- Radiology Unit, Sant'Orsola Malpighi Hospital, Bologna, Italy
| | - Benedetta Rossini
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences (DIMEC), University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | | | - Giuliano Peta
- Radiology Unit, Sant'Orsola Malpighi Hospital, Bologna, Italy
| | - Laura Bartalena
- Radiology Unit, Sant'Orsola Malpighi Hospital, Bologna, Italy
| | - Rita Golfieri
- Radiology Unit, Sant'Orsola Malpighi Hospital, Bologna, Italy
| | - Davide Festi
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences (DIMEC), University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Antonio Colecchia
- Unit of Gastroenterology, Borgo Trento University Hospital of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Matteo Renzulli
- Radiology Unit, Sant'Orsola Malpighi Hospital, Bologna, Italy
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22
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Prevalence and Nonpharmacological Interventions for Sarcopenia among Cirrhotic Patients. DISEASE MARKERS 2021; 2021:8866093. [PMID: 33628339 PMCID: PMC7884167 DOI: 10.1155/2021/8866093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2020] [Revised: 01/24/2021] [Accepted: 01/31/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Sarcopenia is the most common feature of hepatic cirrhosis characterized by progressive loss of muscle mass and function and increases permanently the mortality and morbidity rates among those patients. The incidence of sarcopenia in cirrhotic patients ranged 40-70% associating with impaired quality of life and augmented rates of infection. Based on these issues, this review is aimed at determining the prevalence and main causes of sarcopenia among cirrhotic patients and recognizing the recent diagnostic and physical treatment modalities that prevent risk factors for sarcopenia in those patients. No ideal modality is currently demonstrated for diagnosing sarcopenia in hepatic diseases, particularly cirrhosis; however, recent studies reported different diagnostic modalities for muscle function in different individuals including handgrip strength, skeletal muscle index, six-min walk test, liver frailty index, short physical performance battery, and radiological assessments for quadriceps and psoas muscles. Exercise training and therapeutic nutrition are strongly recommended for controlling sarcopenia in cirrhotic patients. The exercise program is designed and carried out on a frequent basis within an extensive scheduled time aimed at improving functional performance, aerobic capacity, and healthy conditions. Finally, a combination of exercise training and therapeutic nutrition is powerfully recommended to control sarcopenia in cirrhosis.
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23
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Lee CM, Kang BK, Kim M. Radiologic Definition of Sarcopenia in Chronic Liver Disease. Life (Basel) 2021; 11:86. [PMID: 33504046 PMCID: PMC7910987 DOI: 10.3390/life11020086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2020] [Revised: 01/18/2021] [Accepted: 01/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Sarcopenia is prevalent in patients with chronic liver disease, and affected patients tend to have worse clinical outcomes and higher mortality. However, relevant analyses are limited by heterogeneity in the definition of sarcopenia and in the methodological approaches in assessing it. We reviewed several radiologic methods for sarcopenia in patients with chronic liver disease. Dual energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) can measure muscle mass, but it is difficult to evaluate muscle quality using this technique. Computed tomography, known as the gold standard for diagnosing sarcopenia, enables the objective measurement of muscle quantity and quality. The third lumbar skeletal muscle index (L3 SMI) more accurately predicted the mortality of subjects than the psoas muscle index (PMI). Few studies have evaluated the sarcopenia of chronic liver disease using ultrasonography and magnetic resonance imaging, and more studies are needed. Unification of the measurement method and cut-off value would facilitate a more systematic and universal prognosis evaluation in patients with chronic liver disease.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Mimi Kim
- Department of Radiology, College of Medicine, Hanyang University, Seoul 04763, Korea; (C.-m.L.); (B.K.K.)
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24
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Radiologic Definition of Sarcopenia in Chronic Liver Disease. LIFE (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2021. [PMID: 33504046 DOI: 10.3390/life11020086.] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Sarcopenia is prevalent in patients with chronic liver disease, and affected patients tend to have worse clinical outcomes and higher mortality. However, relevant analyses are limited by heterogeneity in the definition of sarcopenia and in the methodological approaches in assessing it. We reviewed several radiologic methods for sarcopenia in patients with chronic liver disease. Dual energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) can measure muscle mass, but it is difficult to evaluate muscle quality using this technique. Computed tomography, known as the gold standard for diagnosing sarcopenia, enables the objective measurement of muscle quantity and quality. The third lumbar skeletal muscle index (L3 SMI) more accurately predicted the mortality of subjects than the psoas muscle index (PMI). Few studies have evaluated the sarcopenia of chronic liver disease using ultrasonography and magnetic resonance imaging, and more studies are needed. Unification of the measurement method and cut-off value would facilitate a more systematic and universal prognosis evaluation in patients with chronic liver disease.
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25
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Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease and Sarcopenia: Where Do We Stand? Can J Gastroenterol Hepatol 2020; 2020:8859719. [PMID: 33204675 PMCID: PMC7652636 DOI: 10.1155/2020/8859719] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2020] [Accepted: 10/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The link between metabolic syndrome (MetS) and sarcopenia has not been extensively studied, but it is evident that they share several common features. Crucial mechanisms involved in sarcopenia-nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) interplay are based on effects of insulin resistance, chronic inflammation, oxidative stress, and crosstalk between organs by secretion of cytokines (hepatokines, adipokines, and myokines). Currently, published studies confirm the association of sarcopenia with the degree of NAFLD defined by liver histology. However, prospective studies that will give us information regarding the causal effect of NAFLD and sarcopenia are still needed. Furthermore, there is a need for a patient-friendly, noninvasive, low-cost method for detection of loss of skeletal muscle mass, strength, and physical performance in the context of NAFLD. Moreover, potential treatment strategies such as physical exercise and nutritional supplementation, that are usually a part of management of sarcopenia, should also be investigated in NAFLD patients, especially given the fact that for now, we do not have a good treatment option for NAFLD. Therefore, future investigations should combine studies on NAFLD and sarcopenia in terms of physical activity and nutritional interventions such as vitamin D supplementation. This review aims to report recent evidence concerning the links between sarcopenia and NAFLD and methods to assess sarcopenia.
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26
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Pugliese N, Lanza E, Aghemo A. Sarcopenia in chronic liver disease: easy to diagnose but hard to treat. Liver Int 2020; 40:2627-2629. [PMID: 33415841 DOI: 10.1111/liv.14690] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2020] [Accepted: 10/01/2020] [Indexed: 02/13/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Nicola Pugliese
- Division of Internal Medicine and Hepatology, Department of Gastroenterology, Humanitas Research Hospital IRCCS, Rozzano, Italy.,Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Pieve Emanuele, Italy
| | - Ezio Lanza
- Division of Interventional Radiology, Department of Radiology, Humanitas Research Hospital IRCCS, Rozzano, Italy
| | - Alessio Aghemo
- Division of Internal Medicine and Hepatology, Department of Gastroenterology, Humanitas Research Hospital IRCCS, Rozzano, Italy.,Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Pieve Emanuele, Italy
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27
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Sinclair M. Controversies in Diagnosing Sarcopenia in Cirrhosis-Moving from Research to Clinical Practice. Nutrients 2019; 11:nu11102454. [PMID: 31615103 PMCID: PMC6836123 DOI: 10.3390/nu11102454] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2019] [Revised: 10/07/2019] [Accepted: 10/10/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Sarcopenia, defined as loss of muscle mass and function, is increasingly recognized as a common consequence of advanced cirrhosis that is associated with adverse clinical outcomes. Despite the recent proliferation in publications pertaining to sarcopenia in end-stage liver disease, there remains no single 'best method' for its diagnosis. The inability to identify a gold standard is common to other specialties, including geriatrics from which many diagnostic tools are derived. Controversies in diagnosis have implications for the accuracy and reproducibility of cohort studies in the field, largely prohibit the introduction of sarcopenia measurement into routine patient care and impede the development of clinical trials to identify appropriate therapies. Difficulties in diagnosis are partly driven by our ongoing limited understanding of the pathophysiology of sarcopenia in cirrhosis, the mechanisms by which it impacts on patient outcomes, the heterogeneity of patient populations, and the accuracy, availability and cost of assessments of muscle mass and function. This review discusses the currently studied diagnostic methods for sarcopenia in cirrhosis, and outlines why reaching a consensus on sarcopenia diagnosis is important and suggests potential ways to improve diagnostic criteria to allow us to translate sarcopenia research into improvements in clinical care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie Sinclair
- Department of Medicine, The University of Melbourne, Parkville 3050, Australia.
- Austin Health, Liver Transplant Unit, 145 Studley Road, Heidelberg 3084, Australia.
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