Diagnostic and therapeutic approach to sarcopenia

Sarcopenia describes a generalized loss of muscle power, mass and function. It is marked by an impaired quality of life and an increased mortality rate. The SARC-F questionnaire was developed as a screening tool to identify patients at risk of impairment in primary care. It addresses five functional areas of physical activity in daily life. In case of a relevant impairment this is to be followed by measurement of hand grip strength using a dynamometer and/or of leg muscle strength by the chair rising test. Patients with pathological results should undergo a measurement of the skeletal muscle index, e.g. by Dual-energy X-ray Absorptiometry. If this lies below the gender-specific threshold, the diagnostic criteria for sarcopenia are met. Cases with normal lean muscle mass are coined as probable sarcopenia. In both cases, causes must be clarified and treatment should be initiated. To differentiate between acute and chronic sarcopenia it is necessary to assess disease progress after a certain period of time.