Prevalence and causes of hospitalization-related sarcopenia: A scoping review

ObjectivesSarcopenia is characterized by the progressive loss of muscle mass and strength and poses significant health risks, particularly for older adults. Recent studies have focused on hospitalization-related sarcopenia--a rapid decline in muscle mass and strength during hospitalization--that has emerged as a critical prognostic factor. This screening review aimed to examine the prevalence of hospitalization-related sarcopenia and risk factors. MethodsThis scoping review was conducted following the PRISMA-ScR guidelines. A literature search was performed in MEDLINE and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials in December 2022. Studies on patients who developed sarcopenia because of hospitalization were included. Meta-analyses, reviews, and nonprimary studies were excluded, with a focus on selecting cohort studies. The risk of bias was assessed using the risk-of-bias assessment tool for nonrandomized studies. ResultsOf the 775 articles screened, 9 were included. Studies from eight countries showed hospitalization-related sarcopenia prevalence of 14%-75%. Major risk factors included low skeletal muscle mass index, low body mass index, and length of hospitalization. Acute illness and surgery significantly accelerated sarcopenia, with rapid muscle mass loss observed within days to weeks of bed rest. Prolonged bed rest, systemic inflammation, and malnutrition due to hypermetabolism were identified as major contributors to muscle mass loss during hospitalization. ConclusionsHospitalization-related sarcopenia occurs in a short period after surgery or acute illness. This review highlights the need for awareness of hospitalization-related sarcopenia and the importance of developing strategies to reduce its effect.