Sarcopenia: Types, Causes, Diagnosis and Impact

This article is a clinical practice review that discusses sarcopenia, defined as the gradual loss of skeletal muscle mass and strength, particularly in older adults. It outlines the different types of sarcopenia, distinguishing between primary sarcopenia, which is related to aging, and secondary sarcopenia, which occurs due to other conditions. The article emphasizes the importance of proper diagnosis, noting that various diagnostic tests can yield differing results due to factors such as muscle mass cut-off points and the tools used for measurement. It presents the criteria established by the European Working Group on Sarcopenia in Older People (EWGSOP) for identifying sarcopenia and its severe forms. The article also details the impacts of sarcopenia on patients, including physical disability and increased mortality risk, and highlights the necessity of dietary assessment in managing the condition. Lastly, it discusses the clinical pathway recommended for identifying and assessing sarcopenia in practice.