Introduction: Chronic pancreatitis (CP) is characterized by progressive inflammatory changes to the pancreas, leading to loss of endocrine and exocrine function. Emerging literature suggests sarcopenia may adversely affect outcomes for chronic pancreatitis patients. This systematic review examines the evidence surrounding the impact of sarcopenia on patients with CP.
Areas covered: A systematic literature search of MEDLINE (via PUBMED), Cochrane and EMBASE databases was undertaken to identify articles describing body composition assessment in patients with CP. Data collected included definitions of sarcopenia, sarcopenia assessment methodology, baseline demographics, surgical outcomes, and short- and long-term outcomes.
Expert opinion: In total, nine studies reported on 977 patients with a sarcopenia prevalence of 32.3% (95% CI 22.9-42.6%). CT remains the primary modality to assess for sarcopenia, due to ease of access. None of the studies reporting on post-operative outcomes for patients with chronic pancreatitis found a significant increase in complications among those with sarcopenia. Mortality within 1 year in the outpatient setting from one study of patients with CP was 16% in sarcopenic patients versus 3% (HR: 6.69 (95% CI: 1.79-24.9), p < 0.001) in those with no sarcopenia.Sarcopenia is prevalent in patients with CP occurring in approximately a third of patients. Sarcopenia is associated with an adverse impact on long-term survival.
Keywords: Sarcopenia; body composition; chronic pancreatitis; pancreatitis; quality of life; survival.