Keywords
sarcopenia
muscle strenght
bone
fracture
eldery
How to Cite
Abstract
Background: Osteosarcopenia is a term used since 2009 referring to the coexistence of bone microarchitectural deterioration (osteopenia/osteoporosis) and muscle involvement (sarcopenia), two geriatric syndromes prevalent in the older adult and which increases the risk of unfavorable outcomes.
Purpose: The objective of this review is to facilitate a comprehensive understanding of this syndrome, focused on primary care physicians.
Methodology: Narrative review of the literature with bibliographic search in databases such as PubMed/Medline, SCOPUS, ScienceDirect, SciELO, Redalyc and Google Scholar.
Results: Osteosarcopenia develops after the molecular, hormonal and mechanical interaction between bone and muscle; its dysregulation can promote the inhibition of muscle synthesis, negatively affecting bone metabolism. It is the result of a combination of biological, psychosocial, lifestyle, nutritional deficit, and exposure-related risk factors, as well as other syndromes such as frailty and the chronic proinflammatory state associated with aging. Osteosarcopenia has an average prevalence of 12,7?% and is associated with reduced gait speed, as well as increased risk of falls, fractures, hospitalizations, and mortality. Its diagnosis requires clinical, functional, and imaging assessments. Treatment involves a combination of pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions, supported by a multidisciplinary approach that can be implemented at the primary care level. Comprehensive geriatric assessment enables the active detection, management, and follow-up of the syndrome. Further clinical trials in geriatric populations are needed to develop cost-effective diagnostic and interventional strategies at the primary care level.
Conclusions: Osteosarcopenia represents a dual geriatric syndrome, characterized by the simultaneous impairment of bone and muscle mass, with significant repercussions on functionality, quality of life, and life expectancy in older adults. Its management requires a systematic and comprehensive approach to enable early detection and timely treatment.
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