Pathogenesis and Management of Sarcopenia

Clin Geriatr Med. 2017 Feb;33(1):17-26. doi: 10.1016/j.cger.2016.08.002.

Abstract

Sarcopenia represents a loss of muscle strength and mass in older individuals. Sarcopenia in the elderly has now become a major focus of research and public policy debate due to its impact on morbidity, mortality, and health care expenditure. Despite its clinical importance, sarcopenia remains under-recognized and poorly managed in routine clinical practice. This is, in part, due to a lack of available diagnostic testing and uniform diagnostic criteria. The management of sarcopenia is primarily focused on physical therapy for muscle strengthening and gait training. There are no pharmacologic agents for the treatment of sarcopenia.

Keywords: Aging; Fall risk; Frailty; Muscle atrophy; Muscle strength; Sarcopenia; Senescence; Skeletal muscle mass loss.

Publication types

  • Review
  • Research Support, N.I.H., Intramural

MeSH terms

  • Accidental Falls / statistics & numerical data*
  • Aged
  • Aging*
  • Exercise Therapy / methods*
  • Frail Elderly*
  • Humans
  • Muscle Strength / physiology*
  • Muscle, Skeletal / pathology
  • Muscle, Skeletal / physiopathology*
  • Sarcopenia* / complications
  • Sarcopenia* / physiopathology
  • Sarcopenia* / therapy