BUFFALO, NY- January 29, 2025 – A new #editorial was #published in Volume 16, Issue 22 of Aging (Aging-US) on December 11, 2024, titled “ISarcoPRM algorithm for global operationalization of sarcopenia diagnosis.”

In this editorial, Pelin Analay, Murat Kara and Levent Özçakar from Hacettepe University Medical School discuss the importance of establishing a standardized global approach to diagnosing sarcopenia, an age-related condition that leads to muscle loss and reduced strength. The authors highlight the ISarcoPRM algorithm, which suggests measuring quadriceps muscle mass instead of the commonly used appendicular lean mass (ALM) measurement. They believe this improved method could help clinicians identify sarcopenia earlier and provide better treatment options.

Sarcopenia is a major health problem for older adults, making daily activities such as walking, climbing stairs, and standing up more difficult. As muscle strength declines, individuals with sarcopenia are at greater risk of falls and serious injuries, such as fractures. Early detection of sarcopenia is crucial to help older adults maintain their mobility and independence.

The editorial points out that current diagnostic tools, such as dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA), may not effectively measure age-related muscle loss. Sarcopenia primarily affects fast-twitch muscle fibers, which are essential for strength and quick movements. However, DXA scans measure overall muscle mass and fail to assess these specific fibers, potentially leading to inaccurate or delayed diagnoses.

The authors propose that measuring the quadriceps muscle mass—the large muscle in the thigh—is a more accurate way to diagnose sarcopenia. This muscle plays a critical role in mobility and strength, and its size and function are strongly linked to a person's overall physical performance. The editorial recommends using ultrasound (US) imaging as a practical and cost-effective solution for diagnosing sarcopenia in clinical settings. Compared to other imaging techniques, US is affordable, widely available, and well-suited for elderly patients, including those with mobility limitations or medical implants. Ultrasound is also non-invasive, making it an ideal choice for routine sarcopenia screening in hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities.

If widely adopted, this new way of diagnosing sarcopenia could help clinicians detect it more accurately and at an earlier stage. Finding sarcopenia early allows people to start helpful treatments, like exercise, better nutrition, and healthy lifestyle changes. These steps can slow down muscle loss and help older adults stay strong and active. Finally, the authors encourage a global consensus on how to diagnose sarcopenia and suggest the ISarcoPRM method as a great option.

“In conclusion, quadriceps muscle mass measurements, preferably by US and as recommended by the ISarcoPRM algorithm, holds great promise in the diagnosis of sarcopenia.”

DOI - https://doi.org/10.18632/aging.206174

Corresponding author - Pelin Analay - [email protected]

Video short - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gDcQ9w6mHyE

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