Sarcopenia: origins and clinical relevance

J Nutr. 1997 May;127(5 Suppl):990S-991S. doi: 10.1093/jn/127.5.990S.

Abstract

This presentation reflects on the origins of the term sarcopenia. The Greek roots of the word are sarx for flesh and penia for loss. The term actually describes important changes in body composition and related functions. Clearly defining sarcopenia will allow investigators to appropriately classify patients and examine underlying pathogenic mechanisms and will allow funding agencies to appropriately target research funds to a taxonomically distinct syndrome.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Aging / physiology*
  • Humans
  • Middle Aged
  • Muscle, Skeletal* / pathology
  • Muscle, Skeletal* / physiopathology
  • Muscular Atrophy* / pathology
  • Muscular Atrophy* / physiopathology