Clinical impact of sarcopenia assessment in patients with liver cirrhosis.

Clinical impact of sarcopenia assessment in patients with liver cirrhosis. Expert Rev Gastroenterol Hepatol. 2020 Nov 16;: Authors: Marasco G, Dajti E, Ravaioli F, Brocchi S, Rossini B, Alemanni LV, Peta G, Bartalena L, Golfieri R, Festi D, Colecchia A, Renzulli M Abstract INTRODUCTION: Sarcopenia is defined as loss of skeletal muscle mass, strength, and function, and it is associated with increased morbidity and mortality in patients with chronic liver disease. Areas covered: The aim of this review is to provide a detailed report on the pathophysiological mechanisms underlying sarcopenia in cirrhotic patients, the several imaging methods available for the assessment of sarcopenia and the clinical studies evaluating the prognostic role of sarcopenia presence in cirrhotic patients. Expert opinion: Sarcopenia pathogenesis is complex and multifaceted, as chronic catabolic conditions, increased energy expenditure, reduced appetite, side effects of multiple therapies, alterations in circulating levels of hormones, low protein synthesis, presence of ascites or portosystemic shunts are all factors contributing to muscle atrophy in cirrhotic patients. Computed tomography scan is the most validated method to evaluate muscle mass and quality. Sarcopenia is associated with a higher rate waitlist mortality, hepatic encephalopathy, and lower quality of life in patients with liver cirrhosis. Future studies should make an effort to unify and valida...
Source: Expert Review of Gastroenterology and Hepatology - Category: Gastroenterology Tags: Expert Rev Gastroenterol Hepatol Source Type: research