Background:The precise characterization of sarcopenia in cirrhosis is a subject of ongoing debate. It encompasses a decline in both muscular strength and/or function. Cirrhosis is a condition characterized by a state of catabolism, when the breakdown of muscle protein surpasses its synthesis, leading to sarcopenia.
Objective: This work aimed to assess sarcopenia as an indicator of malnutrition in individuals with cirrhotic liver.
Patients and methods:This case-control work was performed on 75 participants, both sexes, diagnosed with liver cirrhosis. All cirrhotic subjects with Child-Pugh score either A, B, or C and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Participants had been split into two groups: Control group (n=15) healthy individuals and group II (cirrhotic group) that was further subdivided into four subgroups: 15 participants Child A, 15 participants Child B, 15 participants Child C, and 15 HCC participants.
Results: a positive correlation was existed among the degree of liver cirrhosis detected by shear wave elastography (SWE) and the degree of sarcopenia (PMTH by CT) (P <0.001). Psoas muscle thickness/height (PMTH) had been substantially elevated in the male group in contrast to the female group (P =0.046). SWE of the liver was substantially various among the five groups (P <0.001). The existence of sarcopenia was significantly various between 4 groups as higher in the HCC group contrasted to Child A, Child B, and Child C (P =0.023). Mid-arm circumference and mid-arm muscle circumference (MAMC) were significantly lower in Child A, Child B, Child C, and HCC group compared to the control group.
Conclusions: Malnutrition frequently coexists with cirrhosis, and sarcopenia can serve as a predictive factor for malnutrition associated with cirrhosis and its consequences. A positive correlation was existed among SWE and the degree of sarcopenia.