Sarcopenia in Patients with Rheumatic Diseases: Prevalence and Associated Risk Factors

Assessment of sarcopenia in young patients with inflammatory arthritis: a cross-sectional study

Sarcopenia is a disease characterized by decreasing muscle mass and strength or performance. The prevalence of sarcopenia in rheumatic diseases has been evaluated in single diseases using various diagnostic approaches, generating conflicting data. The study aims to investigate sarcopenia prevalence in young adults with inflammatory arthritis (IA) and to detect factors associated with low muscle mass and strength. The single-center, cross-sectional study included 138 young adults with IA. Dynamometry with a Jamar hand dynamometer was used to determine handgrip strength. Thresholds for reduced muscle strength were < 27 kg for males and < 16 kg for females. To determine skeletal mass index (SMI), dual photon X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) was done with such cut-off points < 5.67 kg/m2 in females and < 7.0 kg/m2 in males. Patients with both reduced muscle mass and strength were considered as sarcopenic. Logistic regression analyses estimated between sarcopenia and associated factors. Statistical significance was defined as a p-value < 0.05. The prevalence of sarcopenia was about 47% in all IA and was significantly different between juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA), spondyloarthritis (SpA), and rheumatoid arthritis (RA) groups (p = 0.006). At multivariable analysis, body mass index (BMI) (OR 0.84; CI 95% 0.72-0.86, p = 0.02), bone mineral density (BMD) at femur neck (OR 0.01; CI 95% 0.001-0.268, p = 0.01), 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) (OR 0.96; CI 95% 0.93-0.98, p = 0.001), and disability by Health Assessment Questionnaire (HAQ) (OR 14.54; CI 95% 4.92-51.77, p < 0.001) were associated with a significantly increased risk of sarcopenia. The results of our study demonstrate a high prevalence of sarcopenia among young patients with IA. In these participants, lower BMI, lower BMD, 25(OH)D concentration, and higher HAQ were linked to sarcopenia.

Screening and diagnosis of sarcopenia in rheumatic and musculoskeletal diseases: findings from a cross-sectional study

Sarcopenia is characterized by loss of muscle mass and reduced muscle function, presenting various adverse events, especially when inflammation is present. The present study aimed to determine the prevalence of sarcopenia and sarcopenic obesity among patients with rheumatic and musculoskeletal diseases (RMDs) and identify the risk for sarcopenia using two screening tools the Strength, assistance with walking, rising from a chair, climbing stairs, and falls (SARC-F) and the Mini Sarcopenia Risk Assessment (MSRA). In this single-center cross-sectional study, 220 consecutive patients visiting the Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology at the University General Hospital of Larissa were interviewed. The EWGSOP criteria were used for the diagnosis of sarcopenia, while sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive values, number needed to screen, and positive and negative likelihood ratios were used to validate the diagnostic validity of the SARC-F and the MSRA. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were also applied to model the relationship between sarcopenia and other variables. In the total sample, 15.9% of patients were diagnosed with sarcopenia and one patient with sarcopenic obesity. The SARC-F (sensitivity 22.2%, specificity 75.6%), the 5-item (sensitivity 88.9%, specificity 18.9%), and the 7-item MSRA (sensitivity 91.7%, specificity 9.2%) presented poor clinical performance when used for screening alone. Univariate logistic regression analyses showed that underweight status, systemic sclerosis and appetite loss are strong contributors to sarcopenia diagnosis. Sarcopenia is prevalent among RMDs, and screening is essential within RMD clinics. None of the screening tools (SARC-F and MSRA) can stand alone in assessing sarcopenia in patients with RMDs. More research is required to understand sarcopenia in RMDs and validate the wide-using screening tools.

The role of ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging in the assessment of musculoskeletal involvement in systemic lupus erythematosus: A review of recent advances and insights

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune disease characterized by diverse manifestations, with musculoskeletal (MSK) involvement being one of the most prevalent and debilitating. Traditional perceptions of SLE arthritis as mild and primarily non-erosive are increasingly challenged by advanced imaging techniques, such as ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). These modalities have revealed subclinical inflammatory changes, structural damage, and peri-articular soft tissue involvement in both symptomatic and asymptomatic patients. Ultrasound is highly sensitive in detecting synovitis, tenosynovitis, and entheseal abnormalities, also in patients without clinical arthritis, offering insights into subclinical disease activity that would otherwise remain undiagnosed. MRI, while less commonly used due to cost and accessibility, remains the gold standard for detecting bone marrow oedema, subtle erosions, and inflammatory changes. Recent studies demonstrate that subclinical synovitis and tenosynovitis, identified through imaging, may precede clinical symptoms in some patients, emphasizing the potential prognostic value of these findings. Bone erosions, once thought rare in SLE, are now observed across various arthropathy subtypes, challenging traditional classifications. Imaging has also revealed the presence of entheseal and muscle involvement, expanding the understanding of SLE-related MSK pathology. This review highlights the transformative role of ultrasound and MRI in diagnosing, monitoring, and managing MSK involvement in SLE. Incorporating imaging findings into routine practice and updated classification criteria may enable early intervention and personalized treatment. While significant advancements have been made in imaging technologies for detecting musculoskeletal involvement in SLE, challenges remain in standardizing protocols and correlating findings with disease activity and outcomes. Further research is needed to address these challenges and further explore the prognostic significance of imaging findings.

Sarcopenia and osteoporosis in patients with psoriatic arthritis: A single-center retrospective study

OBJECTIVE

The risk of both osteoporosis and sarcopenia is high in inflammatory diseases, but there have been few reports of psoriatic arthritis (PsA). This study aimed to evaluate the rate of sarcopenia and osteoporosis, and the association of sarcopenia with osteoporosis in patients with PsA at our institution.

METHODS

The data in this study were extracted from 320 patients with PsA meeting CASPAR criteria diagnosed between January 2010 and December 2021. The 156 patients who had undergone body composition measurements with dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry were included.

RESULTS

Overall, the rate of sarcopenia and presarcopenia were 5.1% and 16.7%. Body mass index (BMI) was significantly lower in the presarcopenia and sarcopenia group. Furthermore, the presarcopenia and sarcopenia group had a significantly lower T-score in all regions. Multivariate analysis of the determinants of T-score for each site showed that SMI was significantly involved for the lumbar spine and the femoral neck, and BMI and rheumatoid factor positivity for the total hip.

CONCLUSIONS

In patients with PsA, the rate of sarcopenia was 5.1%. Osteoporosis rates for males and females were 5.7% and 7.5%, respectively. SMI, T-score, and BMI are significantly correlated with each other and should be considered in clinical practice.

Factors associated with sarcopenia among young adults with juvenile idiopathic arthritis: a cross-sectional study

BACKGROUND

Sarcopenia is a generalized loss of skeletal muscle mass, strength, and performance, and early identification is crucial to minimize adverse outcomes. While sarcopenia is well-studied in older populations, data on its prevalence and risk factors in young adults with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) remain limited.

OBJECTIVES

The study aimed to evaluate the prevalence of sarcopenia in young adults with JIA and to identify associated risk factors.

METHODS

A cross-sectional single-center study was conducted at the Rheumatology Department of Communal Noncommercial Institution "Oleksandrivska Clinical Hospital", Kyiv, Ukraine, involving 70 patients between November 2020 and November 2022. Initially, 84 patients were recruited; however, 14 were excluded due to joint replacement, diabetes, or refusal to participate. Sarcopenia was diagnosed using the Find-Assess-Confirm-Severity algorithm, assessing muscle strength with a dynamometer, confirming sarcopenia using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry, and determining severity via gait speed tests. Univariable and multivariable logistic regression was used to identify factors associated with sarcopenia and reported as odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CI).

RESULTS

Low handgrip strength, sarcopenia, and severe sarcopenia were observed in 64% (45/70), 59% (41/70), and 34% (24/70) of the patients, respectively. Men were less likely to lose muscle mass than women were (OR 0.29, 95% CI 0.10-0.89; p = 0.03). Sarcopenia was significantly predicted by disease activity according to the Disease Activity Score 28 based on erythrocytes sedimentation rate (DAS28-ESR) and clinical Juvenile Arthritis Disease Activity Score (cJADAS27) (OR 2.08, 95% CI 1.15-3.76; p = 0.01; OR 1.15, 95% CI 1.04-1.27; p = 0.007, respectively), articular and extra-articular Juvenile Arthritis Damage Index (JADI) (JADI-A OR 2.29, 95% CI 1.23-4.25; p = 0.009; JADI-E OR 3.15, 95% CI 1.36-7.29; p = 0.008, respectively), and functional capacity according to the Health Assessment Questionnaire (OR 4.14, 95% CI 1.38-12.5; p = 0.01).

CONCLUSION

Sarcopenia in young adults with JIA was associated with disease activity (measured by DAS28-ESR and cJADAS27), articular and extra-articular damage (measured by JADI indices), and lower functional capacity.

Frailty is independently associated with subclinical cardiovascular disease in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus

OBJECTIVES

Cardiovascular disease is a leading cause of mortality in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Frailty has been associated with an increased cardiovascular disease risk (CVR) in the general population. We aimed to examine the association between frailty and subclinical cardiovascular disease in patients with SLE.

METHODS

In this cross-sectional study, we included all patients with SLE who underwent carotid/femoral artery ultrasound in our unit between 2016 and 2018. Clinical and laboratory data were collected at the time of ultrasound testing. Frailty was measured using the Systemic Lupus International Collaborating Clinics-Frailty Index (SLICC-FI). CVR (low, moderate, high, very high) was evaluated by the Systematic COronary Risk Evaluation (SCORE) model. Determinants of atherosclerotic plaque presence were assessed by logistic regression analyses, adjusting for potential confounders.

RESULTS

202 patients were included in the study. Atherosclerotic plaques (20.8% carotid, 17.3% femoral) were observed in 52/202 (25.7%) patients (89.1% women, mean (±SD) age 46.7±12.6). Median (IQR) SLICC-FI was 0.08 (0.04-0.10). 39 (19.3%) patients were classified as robust, 91 (45%) as relatively less fit, 59 (29.2%) as least fit and 13 (6.4%) as frail. In univariate analysis, plaque presence was significantly associated with age, disease duration, smoking, hypertension, systolic blood pressure, dyslipidaemia, SCORE, CVR class and SLICC-FI. CVR class (OR 5.16, p=0.000) and SLICC-FI (OR 1.34, p=0.03 per 0.05 point increase) remained significant in multivariate analysis after adjustment for traditional and disease-related CVR factors.

CONCLUSIONS

SLICC-FI is independently associated with plaque presence. Further studies are warranted to determine whether frailty-specific interventions can reduce CVR in patients with SLE.

Is sarcopenia a real concern in ankylosing spondylitis? A systematic literature review

PURPOSE

Sarcopenia is a condition defined as loss of muscle mass and strength, associated with poor functional performance and disability. Sarcopenia can be exacerbated or worsened in presence of inflammation, sedentary lifestyle and cytokine imbalance, thus it frequently occurs in people affected by rheumatic diseases. This systematic literature review aims to explore the association between sarcopenia and spondyloarthritis (SpA) and its most frequent manifestation, i.e. ankylosing spondylitis (AS).

METHODS

The Scopus, PubMed, and Web of Science databases were searched for articles on muscle mass, muscle strength and axial SpA, from any date to November 2023. Only studies written in English were considered. The methodological quality of the studies included in the review was evaluated using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scales for observational studies and for case-control studies.

RESULTS

190 papers were retrieved from the searches, 14 of which met the inclusion criteria. Rather than diagnosis of sarcopenia, pre-sarcopenia or probable sarcopenia were frequent in people with AS, with a great reduction especially of muscle strength. The pre-sarcopenia status appears to be related to high AS disease activity, suggesting that chronic inflammation resulting in pain, less movement and decreased physical activity could play a role in the muscle heath of AS patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Our review confirms the existence of an association between AS and loss of muscle strength-likely sarcopenia-already at a young age. Preventive and early strategies should be adopted to ensure successful aging for individuals with AS.

Development and validation of a predictive model assessing the risk of sarcopenia in rheumatoid arthritis patients

Background

Sarcopenia is linked to an unfavorable prognosis in individuals with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Early identification and treatment of sarcopenia are clinically significant. This study aimed to create and validate a nomogram for predicting sarcopenia risk in RA patients, providing clinicians with a reliable tool for the early identification of high-risk patients.

Methods

Patients with RA diagnosed between August 2022 and January 2024 were included and randomized into training and validation sets in a 7:3 ratio. Least Absolute Shrinkage and Selection Operator (LASSO) regression analysis and multifactorial logistic regression analysis were used to screen the risk variables for RA-associated muscle loss and to create an RA sarcopenia risk score. The predictive performance and clinical utility of the risk model were evaluated by plotting the receiver operating characteristic curve and calculating the area under the curve (AUC), along with the calibration curve and clinical decision curve (DCA).

Results

A total of 480 patients with RA were included in the study (90% female, with the largest number in the 45-59 age group, about 50%). In this study, four variables (body mass index, disease duration, hemoglobin, and grip strength) were included to construct a nomogram for predicting RA sarcopenia. The training and validation set AUCs were 0.915 (95% CI: 0.8795-0.9498) and 0.907 (95% CI: 0.8552-0.9597), respectively, proving that the predictive model was well discriminated. The calibration curve showed that the predicted values of the model were basically in line with the actual values, demonstrating good calibration. The DCA indicated that almost the entire range of patients with RA can benefit from this novel prediction model, suggesting good clinical utility.

Conclusion

This study developed and validated a nomogram prediction model to predict the risk of sarcopenia in RA patients. The model can assist clinicians in enhancing their ability to screen for RA sarcopenia, assess patient prognosis, make early decisions, and improve the quality of life for RA patients.

Frequency of sarcopenia in Turkish women with systemic lupus erythematosus

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to evaluate the prevalence of sarcopenia and its clinical significance in Turkish women with SLE, exploring the association between muscle mass, muscle strength and SLE disease activity.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study was conducted at Gazi University Hospital's Department of Rheumatology from January to December 2020. It involved 82 patients with SLE, diagnosed according to the 2019 American College of Rheumatology/European Alliance of Associations for Rheumatology criteria, and 69 healthy controls. Sarcopenia was assessed using hand grip dynamometry (hand grip strength (HGS)) and bioelectrical impedance analysis for muscle mass, with sarcopenia defined according to the 2018 European Working Group on Sarcopenia in Older People criteria and specific cut-offs for the Turkish population. The main outcomes measured were the presence of sarcopenia and probable sarcopenia, HGS values, skeletal muscle mass index and SLE Disease Activity Index 2000 (SLEDAI-2K).

RESULTS

Among the patients with SLE, 51.2% met the criteria for probable sarcopenia and 12.9% were diagnosed with sarcopenia. The mean HGS was significantly lower in the SLE group (21.7±4.9 kg) compared with controls, indicating reduced muscle strength. The prevalence of anti-double-stranded DNA (anti-dsDNA) antibodies was 82.9%. Multivariate regression analysis identified height and levels of anti-dsDNA antibodies as independent predictors for developing probable sarcopenia. No significant association was found between clinical parameters, including SLEDAI-2K scores, and sarcopenia status.

CONCLUSIONS

Sarcopenia is prevalent among Turkish women with SLE, with a significant proportion showing reduced muscle strength. The study found no direct association between sarcopenia and SLE disease activity or clinical parameters. These findings underscore the importance of including muscle strength assessments in the routine clinical evaluation of patients with SLE to potentially improve management and quality of life.

Causal associations between autoimmune diseases and sarcopenia-related traits: a bi-directional Mendelian randomization study

Background

Sarcopenia is common in patients with autoimmune diseases (ADs); however, the causal associations between ADs and sarcopenia remain unclear. Therefore, this study investigated the causal associations using bi-directional Mendelian randomization analysis.

Methods

Exposure-related single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were extracted from genome-wide association studies (GWASs). GWAS statistics for common ADs [Crohn's disease (CD), ulcerative colitis (UC), rheumatoid arthritis (RA), systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), psoriasis (PSO), and multiple sclerosis (MS)] and sarcopenia-related traits [hand grip strength (HGS), appendicular fat-free mass (FFM), and walking pace] were obtained from public datasets. Inverse-variance weighting as the main method was used to evaluate the causal effect.

Results

Genetically predicted CD had causal effects on whole-body FFM (β = -0.005, p = 0.001), leg FFM (βleft = -0.006, p = 1.8E-4; βright = -0.007, p = 2.0E-4), and arm FFM (βleft = -0.005, p = 0.005; βright = -0.005, p = 0.001), while RA had causal effects on 8 sarcopenia-related traits, namely, HGS (βleft = -2.06, p = 2.8E-38; βright = -2.311, p = 2E-20), whole-body FFM (β = -0.842, p = 4.7E-10), leg FFM (βleft = -0.666, p = 2.6E-6; βright = -0.073, p = 2.1E-3), arm FFM (βleft = -0.63, p = 4.4E-6; βright = -0.736, p = 4.4E-8), and walking pace (β = -1.019, p = 6.2E-14). In the reverse direction, HGS (odds ratio [OR]left = 10.257, p = 3.6E-5; ORright = 16.445, p = 3.7E-7) had causal effects on CD, while HGS (ORleft = 0.994, p = 0.004; ORright = 0.993, p = 1.4E-4), leg FFM (ORleft = 1.003, p = 0.005; ORright = 1.005, p = 1.9E-4), and walking pace (OR = 0.985, p = 5.7E-5) were causally associated with RA. No evidence showed causal associations of UC, SLE, PSO, or MS with sarcopenia-related traits.

Conclusion

Our study demonstrated that the genetic susceptibility to CD and RA was associated with high risk of sarcopenia, and some sarcopenia-related traits had causal effects on CD or RA.

Sizing and mending of appendicular muscle mass for hydration during the 12-lead electrocardiogram: True incidence of sarcopenia in heart failure

BACKGROUND

Our aim was to develop and evaluate a method for the measurement of muscle mass during the 12-channel electrocardiogram (ECG), to determine the incidence of sarcopenia in patients with overhydration and to correct it for congestion.

METHODS

A 12-channel ECG that simultaneously provided multifrequency segmental impedance data was used to measure total body water (TBW), extracellular water (ECW), ECW/TBW ratio and appendicular muscle mass (AppMM), validated by whole-body dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry. The mean ECW/TBW ratio was 0.24 ± 0.018 (SD) and 0.25 ± 0.016 for young (age range 20-25 years) healthy males (n = 77) and females (n = 88), respectively. The deviation of the ECW/TBW ratio from this mean was used to correct AppMM for excess ECW ('dry AppMM') in 869 healthy controls and in 765 patients with chronic heart failure (CHF) New York Heart Association classes II-IV. The association of AppMM and dry AppMM with grip strength was also examined in 443 controls and patients.

RESULTS

With increasing N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP), a continuous decline of AppMM indices is observed, which is more pronounced for dry AppMM indices (for males with NT-proBNP < 125 pg/mL: AppMM index mean = 8.4 ± 1.05, AppMM index dry mean = 8.0 ± 1.46 [n = 201, P < 0.001]; for females with NT-proBNP < 150 pg/mL: AppMM index mean = 6.4 ± 1.0, AppMM index dry mean = 5.8 ± 1.18 [n = 198, P < 0.001]; for males with NT-proBNP > 1000 pg/mL: AppMM index mean = 7.6 ± 0.98, AppMM index dry mean = 6.2 ± 1.11 [n = 137, P < 0.001]; and for females with NT-proBNP > 1000 pg/mL: AppMM index mean = 5.9 ± 0.96, AppMM index dry mean = 4.8 ± 0.94 [n = 109, P < 0.001]). The correlation between AppMM and upper-body AppMM and grip strength (r-value) increased from 0.79 to 0.83 (P < 0.001) and from 0.80 to 0.84 (P < 0.001), respectively, after correction (n = 443). The decline of AppMM with age after correction for ECW is much steeper than appreciated, especially in males: In patients with CHF and sarcopenia, the incidence of sarcopenia may be up to 30% higher after correction for ECW excess according to the European (62% vs. 57%, for males, and 43% vs. 31%, for females) and Foundation for the National Institutes of Health (FNIH) (56% vs. 46%, for males, and 54% vs. 38%, for females) consensus guidelines.

CONCLUSIONS

The incidence of sarcopenia in CHF as defined by the European Working Group on Sarcopenia and FNIH consensus may be up to 30% higher after correction for ECW excess. This correction improves the correlation between muscle mass and strength. The presented technology will facilitate, on a large scale, screening for sarcopenia, help identify mechanisms and improve understanding of clinical outcomes.

The prevalence of sarcopenia in spondyloarthritis patients: a meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Spondyloarthritis (SpA) is a chronic inflammatory disorder that affects sacroiliac joints and spine, resulting in substantial disability. Sarcopenia, characterized by the loss of muscle mass and function, is a prevalent comorbidity in various chronic diseases. However, the exact prevalence of sarcopenia in SpA patients remains uncertain. The objective of this study is to conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis of the available literature to determine the prevalence of sarcopenia in SpA.

METHODS

A comprehensive search was conducted in EMBASE, MEDLINE, WEB OF SCIENCE, and COCHRANE databases to identify relevant studies published up to 2023. Studies investigating the prevalence of sarcopenia in SpA patients were included. Data on study characteristics, participant demographics, diagnostic criteria for sarcopenia, and prevalence rates were extracted. Meta-analysis was performed using a random-effects model to estimate the overall prevalence of sarcopenia in SpA patients.

RESULTS

A total of 16 studies that met the inclusion criteria were included in the systematic review. These studies encompassed a combined sample size of 999 patients with SpA. The meta-analysis findings revealed that the overall prevalence of sarcopenia in SpA patients was 25.0% (95% confidence interval: 0.127 to 0.352). Furthermore, the prevalence of presarcopenia and severe sarcopenia was found to be 21.0% and 8.7%, respectively. Subgroup analysis was conducted to examine different diagnostic criteria, subtypes, and sex of SpA in relation to sarcopenia.

CONCLUSION

This systematic review and meta-analysis provide a comprehensive overview of the prevalence of sarcopenia in SpA patients. The findings suggest a high prevalence of sarcopenia in SpA patients, emphasizing the need for targeted interventions to prevent and manage sarcopenia. And further research is needed to explore the underlying mechanisms and potential therapeutic strategies for sarcopenia in SpA.

Is Immune Thrombocytopenia and its Treatment Associated with Sarcopenia?

BACKGROUND

Immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) is defined as an isolated platelet count less than 100 × 109/L in the absence of other causes of thrombocytopenia. Sarcopenia is a body-wide muscular disorder with a progressive nature that leads to reduced mobility, physical disability, falls, and poor quality of life. We aimed to evaluate the frequency of objectively diagnosed sarcopenia in patients with ITP and to determine whether ITP therapies have sarcopenic effects.

METHODS

This prospective study included patients who were followed up with ITP in the hematology outpatient clinic. Patients who had received corticosteroids within 3 months were excluded. The handgrip strength test, appendicular skeletal muscle mass (ASMM), ASMM/height2 value, soft lean mass (SLM), trunk soft lean mass (SLMT), and the 6-min walking speed test were applied for muscular evaluations and physical performance assessment.

RESULTS

We included 53 patients (female/male: 73.58%/26.42%). While sarcopenia was not observed in 77.36% of ITP patients, possible sarcopenia was diagnosed in 9.43% and confirmed sarcopenia in 13.21%. Severe sarcopenia was not seen in any of the patients. Loss of muscle strength was observed in 22.64% of patients. SLM was found to be low in 92.45%.

CONCLUSION

Sarcopenia may be more frequent among patients with ITP compared to the population, and it is important to note that 92.45% of patients had low SLM and 54.72% had low SLMT. Eltrombopag therapy might be beneficial as demonstrated by higher SLM, ASMM, and ASMM/height2 values.

[Frequency and severity of sarcopenia in patients with inflammatory and noninflammatory musculoskeletal diseases : Results of a monocentric study in a tertiary care center]

INTRODUCTION

Sarcopenia (SP) is defined as the pathological loss of muscle mass and function. This is a clinically relevant problem, especially in geriatric patients, because SP is associated with falls, frailty, loss of function, and increased mortality. People with inflammatory and degenerative rheumatic musculoskeletal disorders (RMD) are also at risk for developing SP; however, there is little research on the prevalence of this health disorder in this patient group using currently available SP criteria.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the prevalence and severity of SP in patients with RMD.

METHODS

A total of 141 consecutive patients over 65 years of age with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), spondylarthritis (SpA), vasculitis, and noninflammatory musculoskeletal diseases were recruited in a cross-sectional study at a tertiary care center. The European Working Group on Sarcopenia in Older People (EWGSOP 1 and 2) definitions of presarcopenia, SP, and severe SP were used to determine the prevalence. Lean mass as a parameter of muscle mass and bone density were measured by dual X‑ray absorptiometry (DXA). Handgrip strength and the short physical performance battery (SPPB) were performed in a standardized manner. Furthermore, the frequency of falls and the presence of frailty were determined. Student's T-test and the χ2-test were used for statistics.

RESULTS

Of the patients included 73% were female, the mean age was 73 years and 80% had an inflammatory RMD. According to EWGSOP 2, 58.9% of participants probable had SP due to low muscle function. When muscle mass was added for confirmation, the prevalence of SP was 10.6%, 5.6% of whom had severe SP. The prevalence was numerically but not statistically different between inflammatory (11.5%) and noninflammatory RMD (7.1%). The prevalence of SP was highest in patients with RA (9.5%) and vasculitis (24%), and lowest in SpA (4%). Both osteoporosis (40% vs. 18.5%) and falls (15% vs. 8.6%) occurred more frequently in patients with SP than those without SP.

DISCUSSION

This study showed a relatively high prevalence of SP, especially in patients with RA and vasculitis. In patients at risk, measures to detect SP should routinely be performed in a standardized manner in the clinical practice. The high frequency of muscle function deficits in this study population supports the importance of measuring muscle mass in addition to bone density with DXA to confirm SP.

Handgrip strength, physical activity, and body composition in young adults with juvenile idiopathic arthritis

Background. Handgrip strength (HGS) and physical activity (PA) reflect an individual’s overall health and can predict morbidity and mortality. The purpose of the study was to investigate the level of PA and HGS and associated factors in young adults with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) and determine the connection with body composition parameters. Materials and methods. We conducted a cross-sectional monocentric study of 40 young adults aged 18–30. We collected data on PA and anthropometric and clinical measurements, including disease activity and articular and extra-articular damages. All patients had the following evaluations performed: body composition (dual X-ray absorptiometry), PA level (International Physical Activity Questionnaire), and HGS measurement (using manual hand dynamometer). Results. Sixteen (40 %) patients were considered sedentary, and 32 (80 %) JIA patients had low HGS. The reduced HGS was likely in women, patients with lower body mass index, higher disease activity, and articular damage. In contrast, bone mineral density (BMD) and lean mass were protective factors for reduced HGS (p < 0.05). The level of PA was positively correlated with BMD and lean mass and negatively correlated with fat mass, swollen joint count, and articular damage (p < 0.05). Conclusions. JIA leads to changes in body composition parameters, particularly lean (muscle) mass and muscle strength, and therefore is a risk factor for the development of sarcopenia.

Sarcopenia and Nutrition in Elderly Rheumatoid Arthritis Patients: A Cross-Sectional Study to Determine Prevalence and Risk Factors

OBJECTIVE

To describe the prevalence of sarcopenia in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients aged ≥65 years and identify the risk factors associated with sarcopenia.

METHODS

This is a multicenter, controlled, cross-sectional study of 76 RA patients and 76 age- and sex-matched healthy controls. Sarcopenia was defined according to the revised criteria of the European Working Group on Sarcopenia in Older People (EWGSOP2). Whole-body dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) was performed. Binary regression was used to assess the relationship between sarcopenia and sex, age, duration of RA, Mini Nutritional Assessment (MNA) score, and Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB) score in patients with RA.

RESULTS

Nearly 80% of participants were female, and the average age was >70 years. Patients with RA had lower muscle mass and greater adiposity (fat-to-muscle ratio mean [SD] 0.9 [0.2] vs. 0.8 [0.2]; p = 0.017) than controls, mainly in the central area (android/gynoid ratio, median [p25-p75]: 1.0 [0.9-1.2] vs. 0.9 [0.8-1.1]; p < 0.001). Twelve patients (15.8%) and three controls (3.9%) had confirmed sarcopenia (p = 0.014). Sarcopenic obesity was observed in 8/76 patients with RA (10.5%) and in 1/76 controls (1.3%) (p = 0.016). The factors associated with sarcopenia were male sex (OR [95% CI]: 9.3 [1.1-80.4]; p = 0.042), disease duration (OR [95% CI]: 1.1 [1.0-1.2]; p = 0.012), and nutritional status according to the MNA (OR [95% CI]: 0.7 [0.5-0.9]; p = 0.042).

CONCLUSIONS

Our results suggest that patients with RA aged ≥65 years may be at increased risk for sarcopenia, adiposity, and malnutrition (especially male patients with long-standing disease) and have poor nutritional status.

Combined Effects of Diet and Physical Activity on Inflammatory Joint Disease: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Research evidence suggests that, individually, diet and physical activity are effective interventions for reducing levels of inflammation in inflammatory joint diseases (IJD), however little is known about their combined use. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to examine the effects and/or associations of combined diet and physical activity interventions in IJD, specifically rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and the spondyloarthropathies (SpA) (PROSPERO registration number: CRD42022370993). Ten out of 11 eligible studies examined RA patients. We found that a combination of diet/nutrition and physical activity/exercise improved Health Assessment Questionnaire score (standardized mean difference = -1.36, confidence interval (CI) = (-2.43)-(-0.30), I2 = 90%, Z = 2.5, p = 0.01), while surprisingly they increased erythrocyte sedimentation rate (mean difference = 0.20, CI = 0.09-0.31, I2 = 0%, Z = 3.45, p < 0.01). No effects were found on C-reactive protein or weight (p > 0.05) of RA patients. We did not find studies in other IJDs that provided sufficient data for a meta-analysis. The narrative data synthesis provided limited evidence to address our research question. No firm conclusions can be made as to whether the combination of diet/nutrition and physical activity/exercise affects inflammatory load in IJDs. The results of this study can only be used as a means of highlighting the low-quality evidence in this field of investigation and the need for further and better-quality research.

Inflammaging and Frailty in Immune-Mediated Rheumatic Diseases: How to Address and Score the Issue

Frailty is a new concept in rheumatology that can help identify people more likely to have less favorable outcomes. Sarcopenia and inflammaging can be regarded as the biological foundations of physical frailty. Frailty is becoming more widely accepted as an indicator of ageing and is linked to an increased risk of negative outcomes such as falls, injuries, and mortality. Frailty identifies a group of older adults that seem poorer and more fragile than their age-matched counterparts, despite sharing similar comorbidities, demography, sex, and age. Several studies suggest that inflammation affects immune-mediated pathways, multimorbidity, and frailty by inhibiting growth factors, increasing catabolism, and by disrupting homeostatic signaling. Frailty is more common in the community-dwelling population as people get older, ranging from 7 to 10% in those over 65 years up to 40% in those who are octogenarians. Different parameters have been validated to identify frailty. These primarily relate to two conceptual models: Fried's physical frailty phenotype and Rockwood's cumulative deficit method. Immune-mediated rheumatic diseases (IMRDs), such as rheumatoid arthritis, spondyloarthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, systemic sclerosis, and vasculitis, are leading causes of frailty in developing countries. The aim of this review was to quantitatively synthesize published literature on the prevalence of frailty in IMRDs and to summarize current evidence on the relevance and applicability of the most widely used frailty screening tools.

Association between Nutritional Status, Lifestyle Habits, and Disease Activity in Dalmatian Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis

The aim of this study was to evaluate body composition, handgrip strength, quality of life, disease duration and activity and lifestyle habits in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and to evaluate possible associations between all of the abovementioned factors. Seventy-five stable RA patients were included. Data on sociodemographic data, disease activity, quality of life, nutritional risk, body mass composition, anthropometric parameters, and clinical and laboratory parameters were collected for each study participant. The results showed that the mean score of the disease activity score (DAS28) was 5.4, the mean score of the health assessment questionnaire-disability index (HAQ-DI) was 1.19, and the mean disease duration in our population was 13.9 years. Our studied population had a long disease duration and high disease activity. Positive predictors of muscle mass in RA patients were daily caloric intake, fat-free mass, bone mass, basal metabolic rate, total body water, weight, body mass index (BMI), height, and muscle strength. There were no significant negative predictors. Positive predictors of muscle strength in RA patients were daily caloric intake, basal metabolic rate, predicted muscle mass, fat-free mass, bone mass, weight, total body water, metabolic age, hemoglobin, BMI, and number of exercises per week. In contrast, negative predictors of muscle strength were number of comorbidities, number of swollen joints, DAS, number of tender joints, erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), and duration of RA. An association was also found between bone mineral density and both muscle mass and muscle strength. A structured nutritional approach in terms of multidisciplinary collaboration between rheumatologist, dietitian and physical medicine specialist is needed in the Dalmatian RA population.

Assessment of muscle mass using chest computed tomography-based quantitative and qualitative measurements in patients with systemic sclerosis: A retrospective study with cross-sectional and longitudinal analyses

BACKGROUND/ PURPOSE

Sarcopenia has been increasingly studied in systemic sclerosis (SSc), which is one of the most lethal autoimmune diseases, mainly due to lung involvement. Our objective was to study the associations of myopenia and/or myosteatosis with clinical features of SSc and subsequent adverse outcomes.

METHODS

This is a retrospective study with cross-sectional and longitudinal analyses, in which patients with SSc were consecutively included in the outpatient clinic of a tertiary university hospital between 2012 and 2021. Clinical and laboratory parameters of patients with SSc were collected from their medical records. Skeletal muscle mass was assessed on chest computed tomography (CT) at the level of the first lumbar vertebra (L1) by skeletal muscle area (SMA), skeletal muscle index ([SMI] SMA/height²), and skeletal muscle radiation attenuation (SMRA). Cut-off values for myopenia in women and men were SMA <70.1 cm² and <110.4 cm², and SMI <25.9 cm²/m² and <34.6 cm²/m², respectively; values for myosteatosis in women and men were SMRA <29.8 HU and <36.3 HU, respectively. In a subgroup of 31 patients followed-up between 2017 and 2019, the diagnostic properties of SMA, SMI, and SMRA by CT were compared with the appendicular skeletal muscle mass index (ASMI) by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA). Low muscle quantity was defined according to the European Working Group on Sarcopenia in Older People 2: ASMI <5.5 kg/m² in women and <7.0 kg/m² in men. Afterwards, a better tomographic index was used for correlating with clinical and laboratory parameters.

RESULTS

Myopenia and/or myosteatosis were present in 75.7 % of patients with SSc. The prevalence rates according to each index were SMA 25.2%, SMI 12.1%, and SMRA 69.2%. In 73% of the patients with overweight/obesity (body mass index [BMI] ≥25 kg/m²), only SMRA was reduced. Considering ASMI as the gold standard, the sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values for SMA were 60%, 96.2%, 75% and 92.6%, respectively; for SMI, they were 40%, 96.2%, 66.7%, and 89.3%, respectively; for SMRA, these values were 60%, 34.6%, 15%, and 81.8%. Pearson's correlation coefficients were 0.73, 0.74, and 0.10 for SMA, SMI, and SMRA, respectively, and ASMI significantly agreed with SMA (kappa 0.611, p < 0.001) and SMI (kappa 0.431, p = 0.012). After adjustments in a multivariate model, BMI (p < 0.001) and female sex (p < 0.001) remained significantly associated with myopenia by SMA; BMI (p =0.010) remained significantly associated with low muscle mass by ASMI.

CONCLUSION

The SMA index at L1 level on chest CT was demonstrated to be an accurate measure that is useful for detecting myopenia in patients with SSc. BMI and male sex predicted low SMA and BMI was associated with low ASMI on DXA.

STATEMENT OF CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE

In recent years, great advances have been made in sarcopenia-related research, resulting in broader knowledge on its definition, causes, diagnosis, and treatment options. Regarding the techniques used for assessing muscle composition, computed tomography (CT) was demonstrated by many studies to be an efficient and easy-to-use method that can be employed by professionals of different specialties, including rheumatologists. This study was able to demonstrate that although the L3 image was not present on CT, the analysis of SMA at the L1 level on chest CT proved to be an accurate and useful measure to detect myopenia in patients with SSc. This study identified some associated factors of myopenia and/or myosteatosis according to each method employed for assessing muscle composition. Reduced BMI and male sex were associated factors of myopenia when using SMA, and reduced BMI was associated with myopenia when employing ASMI by DXA. Finally, we highlight the need not to generalize the term "sarcopenia" in clinical studies assessing imaging parameters of body composition. The use of the terms myopenia and/or myosteatosis would be more adequate, because CT allows the assessment of muscle composition and not strength or physical performance.

Rheumatoid sarcopenia: loss of skeletal muscle strength and mass in rheumatoid arthritis

Sarcopenia, a disorder that involves the generalized loss of skeletal muscle strength and mass, was formally recognized as a disease by its inclusion in the International Classification of Diseases in 2016. Sarcopenia typically affects older people, but younger individuals with chronic disease are also at risk. The risk of sarcopenia is high (with a prevalence of ≥25%) in individuals with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), and this rheumatoid sarcopenia is associated with increased likelihood of falls, fractures and physical disability, in addition to the burden of joint inflammation and damage. Chronic inflammation mediated by cytokines such as TNF, IL-6 and IFNγ contributes to aberrant muscle homeostasis (for instance, by exacerbating muscle protein breakdown), and results from transcriptomic studies have identified dysfunction of muscle stem cells and metabolism in RA. Progressive resistance exercise is an effective therapy for rheumatoid sarcopenia but it can be challenging or unsuitable for some individuals. The unmet need for anti-sarcopenia pharmacotherapies is great, both for people with RA and for otherwise healthy older adults.

Spondyloarthritis and Sarcopenia: Prevalence of Probable Sarcopenia and its Impact on Disease Burden: The Saspar Study

To evaluate the prevalence of probable, confirmed, and severe sarcopenia in spondyloarthritis (SpA), according to the European Working Group on Sarcopenia in Older People 2019 (EWGSOP2) definition. A total of 103 patients (51% women) with SpA, mean age 47.1 ± 13.7 years, were included and compared to 103 age- and sex-matched controls. Grip strength was measured by dynamometry. Body composition was assessed by whole-body densitometry. In SpA patients gait speed was measured by the 4-m-distance walk test and quality of life was evaluated with a specific health-related questionnaire for sarcopenia (SaRQoL®). Twenty-two SpA patients (21%) versus 7 controls (7%) had a low grip strength, i.e., probable sarcopenia (p < 0.01), 15 SpA (15%) patients and 7 controls (7%) had low Skeletal Muscle mass Index (SMI) (ns), respectively, and 5 and 2% of SpA patients and controls had low grip strength and low SMI, i.e., confirmed sarcopenia (ns). All the sarcopenic SpA patients had a low gait speed, i.e., severe sarcopenia. Finally, probable sarcopenic SpA patients had significantly higher C-Reactive Protein (CRP, p < 0.001) and Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Disease Activity Index (BASDAI score, p < 0.01), lower gait speed (p < 0.001), and SarQoL® score (p < 0.001) than SpA patients with normal grip strength. According to EWGSOP2 definition, the prevalence of probable sarcopenia was significantly higher in SpA patients compared to controls. Probable sarcopenia was associated with higher inflammation and disease activity, impaired muscle performance, and quality of life. These results suggest that muscle strength may be a salient hallmark in SpA.

Ultrasound assessment of degenerative muscle sarcopenia: the University of Barcelona ultrasound scoring system for sarcopenia

AIM

This study aimed to (1) determine the intraobserver and interobserver reliability of ultrasonographic measurement of muscle thickness (MT) and cross-sectional area (CSA) of the rectus femoris and biceps brachii, correlating these values with manual measurements on dissected cadavers and (2) develop the first semiquantitative musculoskeletal ultrasound (MSUS) scoring system of muscle morphology in sarcopenia and assess its intraobserver and interobserver reliability. In addition, the MSUS morphology score was compared with the corresponding histological images to verify concurrent validity.

METHODS

Ten cryopreserved limbs of 10 cadavers aged 68-91 years were evaluated. The MSUS scoring system was based on the severity of muscle degeneration on a 3-point qualitative scale: grade 1 (normal), grade 2 (moderate changes) and grade 3 (severe changes). Reliability was assessed with intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) for the MT and CSA and with Cohen's kappa coefficients (κ) for the MSUS scoring system. Concurrent validity was analysed with ICC.

RESULTS

The results showed excellent intraobserver and interobserver reliability for both the MSUS evaluation of MT and CSA (ICC ≥0.93). The MSUS scoring system showed excellent intraobserver reliability (κ=1.0) and very good interobserver reliability (κ=0.85). There was also a high intra- and inter-observer reliability for the histological scorings (ĸ ≥0.85 and mean ĸ=0.70, respectively), as well as high reliability between the histology and MSUS scoring systems (ICC=0.92). All results were statistically significant (p≤0.001).

CONCLUSION

MSUS measures of MT and CSA and the novel MSUS scoring system for degenerative muscle changes in sarcopenia was found to be reliable and strongly associated with histological findings.

The Efficacy of Biological Disease-modifying Antirheumatic Drugs on Sarcopenia in Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis

Objective Sarcopenia is characterized by a loss of muscle mass and strength, which leads to frailty and mortality. Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is considered to be a cause of sarcopenia. The present study assessed the effectiveness of biological disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (bDMARDs) on sarcopenia. Methods This was a prospective cohort study including 48 patients [11 men, 37 women; 67.5 (57.0-74.8) years old] with RA who started bDMARDs in Niigata Rheumatic Center. We monitored the physical ability, nutritional status and body composition at the baseline, 6 months and 12 months. The physical activity was measured by the Health Assessment Questionnaire (HAQ) and 10-m walking test (10MWT). The nutritional status was assessed by the controlling nutrition status (CONUT) score. Results Among the 48 patients who started bDMARDs, 21 were classified as having sarcopenia. The physical activity and nutritional status were significantly ameliorated after 12 months of bDMARDs. The body composition analysis showed a significant increase in the body weight but no significant increase in the skeletal muscle mass index. The proportion of patients diagnosed with sarcopenia decreased significantly after 12 months of bDMARDs (43.8% vs. 27.1%, p=0.039). Among the 21 patients who were diagnosed with sarcopenia when starting bDMARDs, the skeletal muscle index was significantly increased after 12 months of bDMARDs. [5.22 (4.76-5.43) kg/m² vs. 5.44 (4.84-5.77), p=0.039]. Conclusion Biologics may be useful in the treatment of sarcopenia through mechanisms such as improving the disease activity, physical activity and nutritional status.

Muscle involvement in systemic lupus erythematosus: multimodal ultrasound assessment and relationship with physical performance

OBJECTIVES

The objectives of this study were (1) to explore US findings for muscle mass, muscle quality and muscle stiffness in SLE patients and healthy subjects; (2) to investigate the relationship between the US muscle findings and physical performance in SLE patients and healthy subjects.

METHODS

Quadriceps muscle thickness was used for assessment of muscle mass, muscle echogenicity (using a visual semi-quantitative scale and grayscale analysis with histograms) for assessment of muscle quality, and point shear-wave elastography (SWE) for assessment of muscle stiffness in 30 SLE patients (without previous/current myositis or neuromuscular disorders) and 15 age-, sex- and BMI-matched healthy subjects. Hand grip strength tests and short physical performance battery (SPPB) tests were carried out in the same populations.

RESULTS

No difference was observed between SLE patients and healthy subjects for quadriceps muscle thickness (35.2 mm ±s.d. 6.8 vs 34.8 mm ± s.d. 6.0, respectively, P = 0.79). Conversely, muscle echogenicity was significantly increased in SLE patients (visual semi-quantitative scale: 1.7 ± s.d. 1.0 vs 0.3 ± s.d. 0.5, respectively, P < 0.01; grayscale analysis with histograms: 87.4 mean pixels ± s.d. 18.8 vs 70.1 mean pixels ± s.d. 14.0, respectively, P < 0.01). Similarly, SWE was significantly lower in SLE patients compared with healthy subjects {1.5 m/s [interquartile range (IQR) 0.3] vs 1.6 m/s (IQR 0.2), respectively, P = 0.01}. Muscle echogenicity was inversely correlated with grip strength (visual semi-quantitative scale, Rho: -0.47, P = 0.01; grayscale analysis with histograms, Rho: -0.41, p < 0.01) and SPPB (visual semi-quantitative scale, Rho: -0.50, P < 0.01; grayscale analysis with histograms Rho: -0,46, P < 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

US assessment of muscle echogenicity and stiffness is useful for the early detection of muscle involvement in SLE patients.

Muscle mass loss is associated with physical dysfunction in patients with early rheumatoid arthritis

Background

Muscle mass loss is common in long-standing rheumatoid arthritis (RA). The aim was to explore the prevalence and effects of RA disease characteristics in patients with early RA.

Methods

This cross-sectional study was carried out based on a Chinese RA cohort and control subjects. The body composition (BC) was assessed using bioelectric impedance analysis. Myopenia was defined by an appendicular skeletal muscle mass index of ≤ 7.0 kg/m2 in men and ≤ 5.7 kg/m2 in women. Physical dysfunction was defined as a health assessment questionnaire disability index > 1. Propensity score matching was performed to balance age and gender differences among patients with early RA (disease duration ≤ 12 months) and established RA, and controls (with 1:3:3 matching).

Results

In total, 2017 controls and 1,008 patients with RA were recruited for this study. Among the patients with RA, there were 190 (18.8%) patients with early RA, with a median disease duration of 7 (4, 11) months. The matched patients with early RA (n = 160) showed a higher prevalence of myopenia than the matched controls (41.3 vs. 15.8%, P < 0.0167), but no difference was found in the matched patients with established RA (41.3 vs. 50.4%, P > 0.0167). Compared with the patients with established RA, the patients with early RA exhibited higher disease activity scores [disease activity score in 28 joints with four variables including C-reactive protein (DAS28-CRP): median 4.76 vs. 3.93, P < 0.001] and a higher prevalence of physical dysfunction (26.3 vs. 19.4%, P = 0.035). In the patients with early RA, patients with myopenia showed a higher prevalence of physical dysfunction than those without myopenia (41.3 vs. 15.5%, P < 0.001), among which walking and common daily activities were the most involved subdimensions. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that DAS28-CRP was positively associated with myopenia [adjusted odds ratio (AOR) 1.558, 95% CI (1.138-2.132)], and myopenia [AOR 2.983, 95% CI (1.192-7.465)] was independently associated with physical dysfunction in the patients with early RA.

Conclusion

Our data indicate the importance of early detection of muscle involvement in the early stage of RA and imply the significance of early aggressive control of disease activity for the prevention of myopenia and physical dysfunction in patients with early RA. Our study provides a new perspective on RA management.

Ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging as diagnostic tools for sarcopenia in immune-mediated rheumatic diseases (IMRDs)

Sarcopenia is characterized by loss of muscle mass, altered muscle composition, fat and fibrous tissue infiltration, and abnormal innervation, especially in older individuals with immune-mediated rheumatic diseases (IMRDs). Several techniques for measuring muscle mass, strength, and performance have emerged in recent decades. The portable dynamometer and gait speed represent the most frequently used tools for the evaluation of muscle strength and physical efficiency, respectively. Aside from dual-energy, X-ray, absorptiometry, and bioelectrical impedance analysis, ultrasound (US) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) techniques appear to have a potential role in evaluating muscle mass and composition. US and MRI have been shown to accurately identify sarcopenic biomarkers such as inflammation (edema), fatty infiltration (myosteatosis), alterations in muscle fibers, and muscular atrophy in patients with IMRDs. US is a low-cost, easy-to-use, and safe imaging method for assessing muscle mass, quality, architecture, and biomechanical function. This review summarizes the evidence for using US and MRI to assess sarcopenia.

Systemic sclerosis in a patient with muscle dystrophy

Systemic sclerosis is an autoimmune disease that can result in lung fibrosis, and is strongly associated with the presence of serum anti-topoisomerase-I autoantibodies. A young man with genetic muscular dystrophy caused by titin-cap/telethonin (TCAP) gene mutation, developed a severe restrictive lung disease due to a fibrosing interstitial pneumonia secondary to systemic sclerosis with positive anti-topoisomerase-I antibodies. Using amino acid sequence alignment and protein structure modelling, we found that mutant telethonin exposes an amino acid sequence with significant homology to an immunodominant site of topoisomerase-I. Abnormal telethonin results in a loss of integrity of the sarcomere structure, which might result in rhabdomyolysis and abnormal protein exposure to the immune system. Our preliminary analysis suggests a possible role for mutant sarcomere protein telethonin as an immunogenic target recognised by anti-topoisomerase-I antibodies, which could explain the development of systemic sclerosis in this particular patient.

Pathological phenotypes of body composition in patients with rheumatic diseases

Aim – to identify the frequency of isolated and combined pathological phenotypes of body composition in women with rheumatic diseases and to determine the factors associated with the sarcopenic phenotype.

Materials and methods. 255 women (median age 60 [54; 64] years) were included in the study: 114 patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), 46 – with systemic sclerosis (SSc), 56 – with osteoarthritis (OA), and 39 persons without rheumatic diseases (control). Questionnaires, anthropometric measurements, double-energy X-ray absorptiometry of the whole body, lumbar spine and proximal femur were performed. The assessment of the factors associated with the sarcopenic phenotype was carried out using a univariate regression analysis.

Results. The frequency of isolated and combined pathological phenotypes in women with SSc was 34.8% and 52.2%, with RA – 51.8% and 38.6%, with OA – 71.4% and 10.7%, respectively. The sarcopenic phenotype was more often determined in patients with SSc (43.5%) and RA (29.8%) compared with women with OA (1.8%) (p<0.001). The factors associated with the sarcopenic phenotype were BMI><25 kg/m2 (OR=7.89 [95% CI: 3.90–15.96]; p><0.001), glucocorticoids (GC) intake (OR=2.50 [95% CI: 1.32–4.73]; p=0.005) and cumulative GC dose (OR=1.04 [95% CI: 1.01–1.07]; p=0.008), presence of osteoporosis (OP) (OR=4.31 [95% CI: 2.33–7.97]; p><0.001), leukocytosis more than 9.0×109 /l (OR=4.08 [95% CI: 1.38–12.10]; p=0.011), total protein less than 65 g/l (OR=1.11 [95% CI: 1.02–1.19]; p=0.019) and calcium intake less than 500 mg/day (OR=2.78 [95% CI: 1.39–5.53]; p=0.004). Conclusion. The study demonstrated a significant frequency of pathological phenotypes of body composition in women with rheumatic diseases, while combined phenotypes were more common in patients with SSc and RA compared with patients with OA. The probability of sarcopenic phenotype increased with BMI><25 kg/m2 , GC using, the presence of OP and insufficiency of calcium intake. Key words: rheumatic diseases, body composition phenotypes, sarcopenia, osteoporosis, osteosarcopenia, overfat, rheumatoid arthritis, systemic scleroderma, osteoarthritis, risk factors>˂ 0.001). The factors associated with the sarcopenic phenotype were BMI<25 kg/m2 (OR=7.89 [95% CI: 3.90–15.96];>˂ 25 kg/m2 (OR=7.89 [95% CI: 3.90–15.96]; p<0.001), glucocorticoids (GC) intake (OR=2.50 [95% CI: 1.32–4.73]; p=0.005) and cumulative GC dose (OR=1.04 [95% CI: 1.01–1.07]; p=0.008), presence of osteoporosis (OP) (OR=4.31 [95% CI: 2.33–7.97]; p><0.001), leukocytosis more than 9.0×109 /l (OR=4.08 [95% CI: 1.38–12.10]; p=0.011), total protein less than 65 g/l (OR=1.11 [95% CI: 1.02–1.19]; p=0.019) and calcium intake less than 500 mg/day (OR=2.78 [95% CI: 1.39–5.53]; p=0.004). Conclusion. The study demonstrated a significant frequency of pathological phenotypes of body composition in women with rheumatic diseases, while combined phenotypes were more common in patients with SSc and RA compared with patients with OA. The probability of sarcopenic phenotype increased with BMI><25 kg/m2 , GC using, the presence of OP and insufficiency of calcium intake. Key words: rheumatic diseases, body composition phenotypes, sarcopenia, osteoporosis, osteosarcopenia, overfat, rheumatoid arthritis, systemic scleroderma, osteoarthritis, risk factors>˂ 0.001), glucocorticoids (GC) intake (OR=2.50 [95% CI: 1.32–4.73]; p=0.005) and cumulative GC dose (OR=1.04 [95% CI: 1.01–1.07]; p=0.008), presence of osteoporosis (OP) (OR=4.31 [95% CI: 2.33–7.97]; p<0.001), leukocytosis more than 9.0×109 /l (OR=4.08 [95% CI: 1.38–12.10]; p=0.011), total protein less than 65 g/l (OR=1.11 [95% CI: 1.02–1.19]; p=0.019) and calcium intake less than 500 mg/day (OR=2.78 [95% CI: 1.39–5.53]; p=0.004).>˂ 0.001), leukocytosis more than 9.0×109 /l (OR=4.08 [95% CI: 1.38–12.10]; p=0.011), total protein less than 65 g/l (OR=1.11 [95% CI: 1.02–1.19]; p=0.019) and calcium intake less than 500 mg/day (OR=2.78 [95% CI: 1.39–5.53]; p=0.004).

Conclusion. The study demonstrated a significant frequency of pathological phenotypes of body composition in women with rheumatic diseases, while combined phenotypes were more common in patients with SSc and RA compared with patients with OA. The probability of sarcopenic phenotype increased with BMI<25 kg/m2 , GC using, the presence of OP and insufficiency of calcium intake. Key words: rheumatic diseases, body composition phenotypes, sarcopenia, osteoporosis, osteosarcopenia, overfat, rheumatoid arthritis, systemic scleroderma, osteoarthritis, risk factors>˂ 25 kg/m2, GC using, the presence of OP and insufficiency of calcium intake. 

Prevalence of sarcopenia in patients with rheumatoid arthritis using the revised EWGSOP2 and the FNIH definition

Objective

In rheumatoid arthritis (RA), chronic inflammation can enhance the development of sarcopenia with a depletion of muscle mass, strength and performance. Currently, a consensus definition for sarcopenia and solid results for the prevalence of sarcopenia in patients with RA are lacking.

Methods

In this cross-sectional study, 289 patients ≥18 years with RA were recruited. Dual X-ray absorptiometry was performed to measure appendicular lean mass. Assessment of muscle function included grip strength, gait speed and chair rise time. Prevalence of sarcopenia was defined using the updated European Working Group on Sarcopenia in Older People (EWGSOP2) and the Foundation for the National Institutes of Health (FNIH) definition. In addition, the RA study population was compared with existing data of healthy controls (n=280).

Results

4.5% of patients (59.4±11.3 years) and 0.4% of controls (62.9±11.9 years) were affected by sarcopenia according to the EWGSOP2 definition. Body weight (OR 0.92, 95% CI 0.86 to 0.97), body mass index (BMI) (OR 0.70, 95% CI 0.57 to 0.87), C reactive protein (CRP) (OR 1.05, 95% CI 1.01 to 1.10), disease duration (OR 1.08, 95% CI 1.02 to 1.36), current medication with glucocorticoids (OR 5.25, 95% CI 2.14 to 24.18), cumulative dose of prednisone equivalent (OR 1.04, 95% CI 1.02 to 1.05) and Health Assessment Questionnaire (HAQ) (OR 2.50, 95% CI 1.27 to 4.86) were associated with sarcopenia in patients with RA. In contrast, the prevalence was 2.8% in patients compared with 0.7% in controls when applying the FNIH definition, and body height (OR 0.75, 95% CI 0.64 to 0.88), BMI (OR 1.20, 95% CI 1.02 to 1.41), CRP (OR 1.06, 95% CI 1.01 to 1.11) and HAQ (OR 2.77, 95% CI 1.17 to 6.59) were associated with sarcopenia.

Conclusion

Sarcopenia is significantly more common in patients with RA compared with controls using the EWGSOP2 criteria. The FNIH definition revealed sarcopenia in individuals with high BMI and fat mass, regardless of the presence of RA.

Trial registration number

It was registered at the German Clinical Trials Registry (DRKS) as well as WHO Clinical Trials Registry (ICTRP) (DRKS00011873, registered on 16 March 2017).

Phenotypes of body composition, physical performance and quality of life in women with rheumatoid arthritis

Aim. To evaluate the frequency of different body composition phenotypes, physical performance (PP) and their relationship with quality of life in women with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Materials and methods. The study included 157 women (average age 58.68.8 years) with RA. Clinical and laboratory examination, dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry, quality of life assessment according to the questionnaires EQ-5D (European Quality of Life Questionnaire), HADS (Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale) and RAID (Rheumatoid Arthritis Impact of Disease), determination of muscle strength and the PP of skeletal muscles were carried out. Results. Osteoporotic, sarcopenic and osteosarcopenic phenotypes of body composition were identified in 27 (17%), 16 (10%) and 16 (10%) patients, respectively; 139 (88.5%) people had low muscle strength, and 96 (61.1%) had reduced PP. Quality of life according to the EQ-5D index and RAID, the severity of depression according to HADS in women with different phenotypes of body composition did not differ. Women with osteosarcopenic phenotype had worse indicators for EQ-5D-VAS (VAS visual analog scale), and patients with sarcopenic phenotype had more severe anxiety according to the HADS questionnaire compared to those with normal phenotype (p=0.014 and p=0.027, respectively). The quality of life according to all questionnaires was significantly worse in patients with reduced PP. Conclusion. Pathological phenotypes of body composition were found in 37% of RA patients. A decrease in muscle strength was revealed in 88.5%, and a low PP in 61.1% of patients. The relationship between quality of life and body composition has not been established, at the same time quality of life associated with the PP of skeletal muscles.

Can Biological Drugs Diminish the Risk of Sarcopenia in Psoriatic Patients?

Sarcopenia and psoriasis are different inflammatory diseases that share common comorbidities (e.g., cardiovascular diseases, metabolic syndrome, obesity, autoimmune diseases, depression). Psoriasis is a dermatosis involving the skin, joints, and nails. Its estimated prevalence is 2–4%, and the possibility of progression to psoriatic arthritis reaches 6–42%. Sarcopenia is defined as reduced muscle strength, muscle quantity, and physical performance due to non-ageing related causes. It affects up to 10% of the general population. We conducted a review of the literature to provide up-to-date information about the risk of sarcopenia in psoriasis and to identify risk factors that increase this risk. The search of the literature allowed us to include 51 publications, but only five cross-sectional studies provided quantitative results on the rates of sarcopenia in psoriasis. The prevalence of sarcopenia in psoriasis varied from 9.1% to 61.7%. This wide range was caused by different definitions of sarcopenia and different cut-off values across studies. Prognostic factors include lean mass and fat mass. Further research based on the European Working Group on Sarcopenia in Older People guidelines is required. Such studies should include not only muscle mass and strength but also other factors that may influence the occurrence of sarcopenia and inflammatory markers.

Sarcopenia May Be a Risk Factor for Osteoporosis in Chinese Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis

Purpose

Osteoporosis (OP) has been classically considered a co-morbidity of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). This investigation determined the clinical significance of sarcopenia in patients with RA combined with OP or whether sarcopenia influences RA when combined with OP.

Materials and Methods

Data pertaining to the duration of RA, C-reactive protein (CRP) level, and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) were collected from 549 RA cases and 158 healthy individuals. Disease activity score at 28 joints (DAS28), the body mass index (BMI), health assessment questionnaire (HAQ), bone mineral density (BMD), and Sharp score were compared between the 2 groups.

Results

The prevalence of OP (33.3% vs 12.7%, χ²= 69.992, P < 0.0001) and sarcopenia (61.7% vs 9.0%, χ²= 135.336, P < 0.01) was greater in patients with RA than in healthy controls. RA patients with sarcopenia had a higher incidence of OP at all measured sites than RA patients without sarcopenia (all P < 0.0001), and the incidence of OP was significantly higher than in patients with mild-to-moderate or severe RA without sarcopenia (P < 0.0001). Differences in age, gender, course of disease, CRP level, ESR, DAS28, BMI, HAQ, BMD, and Sharp score were statistically different between the RA with or without sarcopenia groups (P < 0.01). The incidence of OP and sarcopenia was higher in RA patients treated than not treated with glucocorticoids [GCs] (36.4% vs 29.3%, P < 0.05 and 66.1% vs 56.0%, respectively; P < 0.05). Logistic regression showed that the risk factors for OP in RA individuals were female (OR, 14.671; 95% CI, 6.877–31.300; P < 0.0001), age (OR, 1.100; 95% CI, 1.076–1.124; P < 0.0001), and sarcopenia (OR, 3.561; 95% CI, 2.214–5.726; P < 0.0001).

Conclusion

OP and sarcopenia are common in RA patients. Sarcopenia may be a risk factor for OP occurrence in Chinese patients with RA.

Sarcopenia: imaging assessment and clinical application

Sarcopenia is a progressive, generalized skeletal muscle disorder characterized by reduction of muscle mass and strength. It is associated with increased adverse outcomes including falls, fractures, physical disability, and mortality, particularly, in elderly patients. Nowadays, sarcopenia has become a specific imaging biomarker able to predict clinical outcomes of patients. Muscle fibre reduction has shown to be an unfavourable pre-operative predictive factor in patients with cancer, and is associated with worse clinical outcomes in terms of postoperative complications, morbidity, mortality, and lower tolerance of chemoradiation therapy. Several imaging modalities, including dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry, CT, MRI, and US can be used to estimate muscle mass and quality to reach the diagnosis of sarcopenia. This article reviews the clinical implications of sarcopenia, how this condition can be assessed through different imaging modalities, and future perspectives of imaging of sarcopenia.

Prevalence of sarcopenia after remission of hypercortisolism and its impact on HRQoL

BACKGROUND

Cushing's syndrome (CS) is associated with skeletal muscle structural and functional impairment which may persist long-term despite surgical removal of the source of cortisol excess. Prevalence of sarcopenia and its impact on Health-Related-Quality of Life (HRQoL) in 'cured' CS is not known. There is a need to identify easy biomarkers to help the clinicians recognise patients at elevated risk of suffering sustained muscle function.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We studied 36 women with CS in remission, and 36 controls matched for age, body mass index, menopausal status, and level of physical activity. We analysed the skeletal muscle mass using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry, muscle fat fraction using two-point Dixon magnetic resonance imaging and muscle performance and strength using the following tests: hand grip strength, gait speed, timed up and go and 30-s chair stand. We assessed HRQoL with the following questionnaires: SarQoL, CushingQoL, SF-36. We calculated the sarcopenia index (SI; serum creatinine/serum cystatin C × 100).

RESULTS

Prevalence of sarcopenia, according to the European Working Group on Sarcopenia in Older People (EWGSOP), was greater in CS as compared with controls (19% vs. 3%; p < .05). Patients with sarcopenia had a lower SarQoL score than those without sarcopenia (61 ± 17 vs. 75 ± 14; p < .05), and scored worse on the items pain, easy bruising and worries on physical appearance (p < .05 for all comparisons) of the CushingQoL questionnaire. Patients with sarcopenia had poorer physical functioning on SF-36 than those without sarcopenia (60 ± 23 vs. 85 ± 15; p < .01). SI was lower in patients with sarcopenia than those without (71 ± 3 vs. 77 ± 2; p = .032), and was associated with intramuscular fatty infiltration, worse performance on the 30-s chair stand test, slower gait speed, and worse muscle weakness-related HRQoL, as measured using the SarQoL questionnaire (p < .05). The optimised cut-off value for the SI ratio to diagnose sarcopenia was 72, which yielded a sensitivity of 73% and a specificity of 90%.

CONCLUSIONS

Sarcopenia is common in patients with CS in long-term remission, and associated with impaired quality of life. The SI is a potential biomarker allowing clinicians to identify patients at high risk of muscle dysfunction.

Prevalence of Sarcopenia and its Association with Antirheumatic Drugs in Middle-Aged and Older Adults with Rheumatoid Arthritis: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

To examine the prevalence of sarcopenia and its association with antirheumatic drugs in adults with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). This review was registered on PROSPERO and followed PRISMA guidelines. Electronic databases were searched for studies reporting on the prevalence of sarcopenia in adults with RA using any muscle index (muscle mass, strength and/or physical performance) and cutpoints as recommended by established criteria (EWGSOP1/2, AWGS, FNIH, SDOC). The secondary objective was to investigate the relationship between RA, antirheumatic drugs, and sarcopenia. Among 2240 middle-aged and older adults with RA (mean age: 47.7 ± 5.5 to 75.0 ± 6.2 years, 83.8% women), the pooled prevalence of low muscle mass/sarcopenia was 30.2% [95% confidence interval (CI) 24.2-36.2%; 16 studies; I²: 89.2%]. Sub-group analysis showed a non-significant higher prevalence of low muscle mass alone (32.6%, 95% CI 25.0-40.3%; I²: 87.9%) versus consensus definitions of sarcopenia (25.4%, 95% CI 15.4-35.3%; I²: 91.2%, p = 0.255). In adults with RA, corticosteroid use was positively associated with sarcopenia [odds ratio (OR) 1.46, 95% CI 0.94-2.29, 7 studies; I²: 47.5%] while conventional synthetic disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (csDMARDs) was inversely associated (OR 0.70, 95% CI 0.52-0.94; 6 studies: I²: 0.00%) with this muscle disease. No association was found for biological/targeted synthetic disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (b/tsDMARDs) (OR 0.83, 95% CI 0.54-1.30; 6 studies: I²: 47.6%). Sarcopenia is a common comorbidity of RA, and as such, clinicians should screen for this muscle disease in adults with RA. Further longitudinal studies are needed to understand the role of antirheumatic drugs (particularly type, dosing, and duration) in the development of sarcopenia.

Sarcopenia, immune-mediated rheumatic diseases, and nutritional interventions

Introduction

Sarcopenia is defined by a loss of muscle mass and function associated with mortality, decreased physical performance, falls, and disability. Since chronic inflammation and decreased physical activity are risk factors for developing sarcopenia, it is critical to assess the role of sarcopenia in immune-mediated rheumatic diseases (IMRDs). Moreover, nutritional interventions are emerging as key modifiable and affordable options to improve physical performance in sarcopenia.

Objective

The aim of this review is to critically summarize current information on the evidence linking nutritional interventions and sarcopenia in IMRDs.

Methods

The search and selection of articles was performed in Medline, Dimensions.ai, Google Scholar, Cochrane Library, Epistemonikos, and Trip Database. The results were clustered into three areas: sarcopenia and IMRDs, sarcopenia and biological disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (bDMARDs), and nutritional interventions for sarcopenia.

Findings

Several cross-sectional studies have shown a higher prevalence of sarcopenia in IMRDs, such as rheumatoid arthritis. Although not fully established, evidence linking sarcopenia and other IMRDs (ankylosing spondylitis and systemic sclerosis) has been also described. For secondary sarcopenia prevention and treatment, bDMARDs’ administration proved efficacy in patients with rheumatoid arthritis. Furthermore, there is growing evidence linking nutrition to the prevention and treatment of sarcopenia. Evidence linking unfavourable results in nutritional risk assessment, insufficient intake of protein, vitamin D, antioxidant nutrients, and long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids and sarcopenia have been reported.

Conclusion

Given that sarcopenia and IMRDs have strong links, further research is needed to improve patient care.

Interactive effect of sarcopenia and falls on vertebral osteoporotic fracture in patients with rheumatoid arthritis

Patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) had higher incidences of sarcopenia, falls, osteoporosis, and vertebral osteoporotic fractures (VOPF). Sarcopenia was associated with longer disease duration, higher disease activity, and more severe RA. The interactive effect of sarcopenia and falls was associated with a higher risk of VOPF in patients with RA.

PURPOSE

Whether sarcopenia and falls are a risk factor for vertebral fracture in RA patients has not been demonstrated. This study aimed to explore the incidence of vertebral osteoporotic fracture (VOPF) and its relationship with sarcopenia and falls in RA patients.

METHODS

A total of 474 RA patients and 156 controls were enrolled in this study. Anteroposterior and lateral X-ray examinations of the vertebral column (T4-L4) were used for the semiquantitative assessment of VOPF. Bone mineral density was measured by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry. Skeletal muscle mass was measured by direct segmental multifrequency bioelectrical impedance analysis (DSM-BIA method).

RESULTS

RA patients had an increased risk of sarcopenia (62.4% vs 9.0%, x² = 47.478, P < 0.001), falls (30.2% vs 3.2%), osteoporosis (OP) (33.5% vs 12.8%, x² = 134.276, P < 0.001), and VOPF (20.3% vs 3.8%, x² = 47.478, P < 0.001) than controls. Patients with sarcopenia were more likely to have VOPF than RA without sarcopenia (24.0% vs 14.0%, x² = 6.802, P = 0.009). RA with sarcopenia and prior falls had the highest incidences of VOPF (36.7%). Older age (OR = 1.056, P < 0.001, 95% CI 1.030-1.083), falls (OR = 2.043, P = 0.003, 95% CI 1.238-3.371), OP (OR = 1.819, P = 0.034, 95% CI 1.046-3.163), and usage of glucocorticoids (GCs) (OR = 1.862, P = 0.022, 95% CI 1.093-3.172) were risk factors for VOPF in RA patients, while a higher skeletal muscle index (SMI) was a protective factor (OR = 0.754, P = 0.038, 95% CI 0.578-0.984) for VOPF in RA patients.

CONCLUSIONS

The interactive effect of sarcopenia and falls is associated with a higher risk of VOPF in patients with RA.

Prevalence of Sarcopenia and Whole-Body Composition in Rheumatoid Arthritis

BACKGROUND

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease that leads to joint deformity and disability, as well as muscle involvement. Sarcopenia is characterized by a progressive age-related loss of muscle mass and strength.

AIM

The aim of this study was to evaluate the prevalence of sarcopenia and possible contributing factors associated with sarcopenia in RA patients.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Adult RA patients (n = 105) of both sexes and 100 subjects as control group (CG) matched by age, sex, and body mass index were included in this cross-sectional study. Whole-body composition was measured by dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry. Sarcopenia was defined according to European Working Group on Sarcopenia in Older People 2 as low muscle strength (handgrip) and low muscle mass (appendicular skeletal muscle mass [ASM] index by dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry). The association between sarcopenia and associated factors was evaluated using logistic regression analyses.

RESULTS

Significantly lower percentage of lean mass and ASM were found in the whole RA group compared with controls. However, lower lean parameters (total lean mass, percentage of lean mass, and ASM) were observed only in female subjects. The ASM index was significantly lower in female subjects with RA (RA 31.0% vs CG 11.9%) without differences in male subjects. On the other hand, fat mass and most adipose indices were significantly higher in both female and male subjects with RA. Female RA patients had higher prevalence of sarcopenia and sarcopenic obesity. Through univariate logistic regression analysis, the time of corticosteroids use, cumulative corticosteroid dose, previous fragility fractures, total lean mass, and ASM were associated with sarcopenia.

CONCLUSIONS

Higher prevalence of sarcopenia and sarcopenic obesity were found in female RA patients. Sarcopenia was found in younger female subjects with RA compared with healthy control subjects. Sarcopenia was associated with previous fragility fractures in female patients with RA.

Exercise therapy for sarcopenia in rheumatoid arthritis: A meta-analysis and meta-regression of randomized controlled trials

OBJECTIVE

Rheumatoid arthritis and age are associated with high sarcopenia risk. Exercise is an effective treatment for preventing muscle mass loss in older adult populations. It remains unclear whether exercise affects muscle mass in people with rheumatoid arthritis. Thus, this meta-analysis investigated the effect of exercise on muscle mass gain in patients with rheumatoid arthritis.

DATA SOURCES

PubMed, EMBASE, the Cochrane Library, the Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro), the China Knowledge Resource Integrated Database, and Google Scholar were systematically searched until June 2021.

METHODS

The present study was conducted according to the guidelines recommended by the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that reported the effects of exercise on muscle mass for rheumatoid arthritis were identified. The included RCTs were subject to meta-analysis and risk of bias assessment. Subgroup and random-effects meta-regression analyses were performed to identify any heterogeneity (I²) of treatment effects across studies.

RESULTS

We included nine RCTs with a median PEDro score of 6/10 (range: 4/10-8/10). The weighted mean effect size for muscle mass was 0.77 (95% CI: 0.30-1.24; P = 0.001; I² = 77%). Meta-regression analyses indicated that the disease duration significantly explained variance of treatment effects across studies (β = -0.006, R² = 69.7%, P = 0.005).

CONCLUSIONS

Exercise therapy effectively increased muscle mass in patients with rheumatoid arthritis. Treatment effects may be attenuated in those who have had rheumatoid arthritis for a relatively long time.

Body composition and bone mineral density in postmenopausal women with rheumatoid arthritis

Aim – to study the relationship between body composition and bone mineral density (BMD) in postmenopausal women with rheumatoid arthritis (RA).

Material and methods. 68 postmenopausal women, median age 59 [54; 63] years, with RA were included in the study. Bone mineral density (BMD) and body composition were assessed with dual energy X-ray absorptiometry.

Results. 33 (48.5%) women had osteopenia, and 17 (25.0%) – osteoporosis (OP). Low lean muscle mass was found in 10 (14.7%) patients. There were positive correlations between different areal BMD and body weight, trunk fat, trunk lean muscle mass and total lean muscle mass. In the multivariate linear regression analysis total lean muscle mass was associated with BMD of lumbar spine (β=0.638; p=0.001) and total hip (β=0.473; p=0.008), and appendicular lean muscle mass, estimated using the appendicular muscle index, with femoral neck BMD (β=0.360; p=0.014).

Conclusion. 73.5% of patients with RA had a reduced BMD, and 14.7% women – low muscle mass. The revealed significant association between the lean muscle mass and BMD of lumbar spine and proximal femur indicates the importance of detecting and correcting low lean muscle mass, as well as preventing its decline in order to prevent loss of BMD and osteoporotic fractures.

The prevalence of sarcopenia in patients with rheumatological pathology

Aim. To assess the prevalence of sarcopenia in rheumatological patients. Materials and methods. 317 patients with rheumatological pathology were examined, among them 201 women and 116 men, the age of patients ranged from 21 to 58 years, the average age at the time of inclusion of patients in the study was 41.17.3 years. Sarcopenia was diagnosed using the method recommended by The European Working Group on Sarcopenia in Older People 2. Results. The frequency of occurrence of a decrease in the appendicular skeletal muscle mass to the appendicular skeletal muscle mass index was 31.2% (99 patients), a decrease in muscle strength according to the wrist dynamometry was observed in 44.5% (141) patients, low skeletal muscle performance according to the results NIH Toolbox 4 Meter Walk Gait Speed Test in 42.8% (135) patients. The prevalence of suspected sarcopenia (probable sarcopenia) was 13.3% (42 patients) and sarcopenia, including severe 31.2% (99) patients. Statistically significant differences were obtained between groups of patients depending on the duration of rheumatological disease and the prevalence of sarcopenia (2=19.328; p=0.001). Conclusion. Sarcopenia occurs in a third of hospitalized rheumatological patients.

Synergistic effect of sarcopenia and poor balance on osteoporotic vertebral fracture in Chinese patients with rheumatoid arthritis

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to investigate the synergistic effect of sarcopenia and poor balance on osteoporotic vertebral fracture (VOPF) in Chinese patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA).

METHODS

A total of 238 RA patients and 158 normal subjects were enrolled in the case-control study. Poor balance capability (Berg balance scale (BBS) score < 40) and sarcopenia (skeletal muscle mass index (SMI) <7.0 (male)/5.7 (female)) between RA patients and normal subjects were compared. Associations of poor balance capability or sarcopenia with disease activity, structural damage, and joint function in different groups were also investigated.

RESULTS

The incidence of sarcopenia in RA was 58.4%, significantly higher than that in controls (P<0.0001). Moreover, the percentages of low balance capacity (BBS<40) in RA were 43.7%, which was higher than that in controls (P<0.0001). The prevalence of VOPF in the case group was 19.3%, which was higher than that in the controls (P<0.0001). In the RA group, compared to RA patients without VOPF, RA patients with VOPF had higher percentages of poor balance and sarcopenia (P<0.05). Compared with RA patients without sarcopenia or good balance, RA patients with sarcopenia or poor balance had a higher incidence of VOPF, higher disease activity, severer structural damage, and worse joint function (P<0.05). The incidence of VOPF in patients combined with good balance and non-sarcopenia (4.8%) was significantly lower than that in patients combined with poor balance and sarcopenia (38.2%) (P<0.0001). Logistic regression indicated that higher SMI and higher BBS scores were protective factors for VOPF in RA patients, while age was a risk factor for VOPF in RA patients (P<0.0001).

CONCLUSION

Sarcopenia and poor balance are popular in Chinese patients with RA, and they are associated with disease activity and structural damage. There is a synergistic effect of sarcopenia and poor balance on VOPF in RA. Key Points • Sarcopenia and balance capability were popular (about a half) in patients with RA. • Sarcopenia and poor balance had a synergistic effect on VOPF in RA.

Evaluating the strength of spinal and proximal girdle muscles in patients with axial spondyloarthritis: Correlation with activity, disability, and functionality

AIM

To compare the muscle strength of muscle groups in axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA) patients with the muscle powers of healthy volunteers and to examine the relationship of muscle strengths with disease activity, functionality, and disability.

METHOD

One hundred males (50 axSpA, 50 healthy) were included in the study. Bath Disease Activity Index (BASDAI), Functional Index (BASFI), and Health Assessment Questionnaire-Disability Index (HAQ-DI) scores were recorded. The maximum (max) and mean cervical flexion, extension, lateral flexion (CF, CE, CLF), truncal flexion, extension (TF, TE), root joint flexion, extension, abduction, internal and external rotation (SF, SE, SAB, SIR and SER for the shoulder; HF, HE, HAB, HIR and HER for the hip) muscle strengths of the patients in both groups were measured by a handheld dynamometer. Total muscle strength (CT, TT, ST, HT) was found according to the sum of the max and mean values for each region.

RESULTS

All muscle strengths were lower in the axSpA group compared to the healthy volunteers. The symptom duration was found to have a weak-moderate negative correlation with CT, TT, ST, HT and all individual muscle strengths except for the TE, CF, HIR, and HER. BASDAI and HAQ-DI had weak-moderate negative correlations with HIR and HER. BASFI had a weak-moderate negative correlation with cervical measurements, TE, TF, SF, SER, SIR, and hip measurements.

CONCLUSION

All muscle strengths were lower in patients compared to healthy volunteers. Strengthening specific muscle groups for the desired goal can be a reasonable strategy. The study is prospectively registered and available at www.clinicaltrials.gov (NCT04435860).

Muscle wasting, a neglected complication associated with physical dysfunction in elderly patients with rheumatoid arthritis: a cross-sectional observational study

Objective: Little is known about muscle wasting in elderly patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). We examined muscle characteristics and their clinical significance in this group.Method: Consecutive RA patients were recruited and clinical data were collected. Muscle mass and distribution were assessed using bioelectric impedance analysis. Myopenia was defined as an appendicular skeletal muscle mass index (ASMI) ≤ 7.0 kg/m² (men) and ≤ 5.7 kg/m² (women).Results: Among the 643 RA patients recruited, 165 (25.7%) were elderly patients (age ≥ 60 years) with a mean age of 65.1 ± 4.5 years. Compared with young patients (age < 60 years), elderly RA patients had significantly higher Disease Activity Score based on 28-joint count-C-reactive protein (DAS28-CRP) (median 3.4 vs 3.2), Health Assessment Questionnaire Disability Index (HAQ-DI) (0.38 vs 0.13), and modified total Sharp score (mTSS) (16 vs 9), and a higher proportion of myopenia (54.5% vs 41.4%; all p < 0.01). Elderly RA patients with myopenia (n = 90, 14.0%) had significantly higher DAS28-CRP (3.6 vs 3.0), HAQ-DI (0.50 vs 0.12), and mTSS (21 vs 7) than young RA patients without myopenia (n = 280, 43.5%; all p < 0.0083). Multivariate logistic and linear regression analyses showed that myopenia, high HAQ-DI, active smoking, hypertension, diabetes, and coronary atherosclerotic heart disease were the main relevant characteristics of elderly RA patients. Age positively correlated with HAQ-DI, and ASMI negatively correlated with HAQ-DI (both p < 0.01). Further mediation analysis showed that ASMI partially mediated the association between age and HAQ-DI.Conclusion: Our data reveal that half of elderly RA patients manifest myopenia which aggravates physical dysfunction as a mediator of age. Myopenia, a neglected complication in elderly RA patients, should be recognized and further investigated.

Practical screening tools for sarcopenia in patients with systemic sclerosis

Introduction

In view of the method of diagnosing sarcopenia being complex and considered to be difficult to introduce into routine practice, the European Working Group on Sarcopenia in Older People (EWGSOP) recommends the use of the SARC-F questionnaire as a way to introduce assessment and treatment of sarcopenia into clinical practice. Only recently, some studies have turned their attention to the presence of sarcopenia in systemic sclerosis (SSc).There is no data about performance of SARC-F and other screening tests for sarcopenia in this population.

Objective

To compare the accuracy of SARC-F, SARC-CalF, SARC-F+EBM, and Ishii test as screening tools for sarcopenia in patients with SSc.

Methods

Cross-sectional study of 94 patients with SSc assessed by clinical and physical evaluation. Sarcopenia was defined according to the revised 2019 EWGSOP diagnostic criteria (EWGSOP2) with assessments of dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry, handgrip strength, and short physical performance battery (SPPB). As case finding tools, SARC-F, SARC-CalF, SARC-F+EBM and Ishii test were applied, including data on calf circumference, body mass index, limitations in strength, walking ability, rising from a chair, stair climbing, and self reported number of falls in the last year. The screening tests were evaluated through receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves. Standard measures of diagnostic accuracy were computed using the EWGSOP2 criteria as the gold standard for diagnosis of sarcopenia.

Results

Sarcopenia was identified in 15 (15.9%) patients with SSc by the EWGSOP2 criteria. Area under the ROC curve of SARC-F screening for sarcopenia was 0.588 (95% confidence interval (CI) 0.420–0.756, p = 0.283). The results of sensitivity, specificity, positive likelihood ratio (+LR), negative likelihood ratio (-LR) and diagnostic Odds Ratio (DOR) with the EWGSOP2 criteria as the gold standard were 40.0% (95% CI, 19.8–64.2), 81.0% (95% CI, 71.0–88.1), 2.11 (95% CI, 0.98–4.55), 0.74 (95% CI, 0.48–1.13) and 2.84 (95% CI, 0.88–9.22), respectively. SARC-CalF and SARC-F+EBM showed better sensitivity (53.3%, 95% CI 30.1–75.2 and 60.0%, 95% CI 35.7–80.2, respectively) and specificity (84.8%, 95% CI 75.3–91.1 and 86.1%, 95% CI 76.8–92.0, respectively) compared with SARC-F. The best sensitivity was obtained with the Ishii test (86.7%, 95% CI 62.1–96.3), at the expense of a small loss of specificity (73.4%, 95% CI 62.7–81.9). Comparing the ROC curves, SARC-F performed worse than SARC-CalF, SARC-F+EBM and Ishii test as a sarcopenia screening tool in this population (AUCs 0.588 vs. 0.718, 0.832, and 0.862, respectively). Direct comparisons between tests revealed differences only between SARC-F and Ishii test for sensitivity (p = 0.013) and AUC (p = 0.031).

Conclusion

SARC-CalF, SARC-F+EBM, and Ishii test performed better than SARC-F alone as screening tools for sarcopenia in patients with SSc. Considering diagnostic accuracy and feasibility aspects, SARC-F+EBM seems to be the most suitable screening tool to be adopted in routine care of patients with SSc.

The prevalence and risk factors of sarcopenia in rheumatoid arthritis patients: A systematic review and meta-regression analysis

BACKGROUND

Sarcopenia is an ever-increasingly recognized entity in aging or chronically-ill individuals. A recent surge of researches came out on sarcopenia in rheumatoid arthritis (RA). However, the results varied widely. We tried to assess the prevalence of and associated factors with sarcopenia in patients with RA.

METHODS

We searched the investigations dealing with the prevalence of and associated factors with sarcopenia in RA from PubMed, EMBASE, CENTRAL, EBSCOhost, Airiti Library, CEPS, CNKI and J-STAGE from the inception to January 11, 2020. Effects regarding prevalence and associated factors were extracted and evaluated by random-effects model. Sensitivity analysis was also performed.

RESULTS

Seventeen studies containing 3,140 RA subjects were identified. After exclusion of outliers, the pooled prevalence of sarcopenia was 31%. Neither ongoing-study districts nor diagnostic modalities affected prevalence significantly. Any associated factors being mentioned in at least two publications were analyzed, yielding functional limitation (Steinbrocker stage III/IV), high CRP and RF seropositivity as the significant risk factors. Based on disease durations, we carried out meta-regression and found DAS28 and HAQ are predictive models. There was no alteration in the interpretation of results from sensitivity analysis after removal of any studies skewed in sampling distribution.

CONCLUSIONS

The prevalence of sarcopenia in patients with RA is high, compared to that in general counterparts. Disease duration rather than age, residing area or diagnostic modalities influences sarcopenia development; DAS28 and HAQ predict occurrence. High index of suspicion to facilitate early detection of sarcopenia in RA patients is important.