Muscle psoas indices measured by ultrasound in cirrhosis — Preliminary evaluation of sarcopenia assessment and prediction of liver decompensation and mortality

Abstract

BackgroundNo data on the European population exists regarding the use of an ultrasoundbased measurement of psoas diameter for sarcopenia assessment in cirrhosis. AimsTo determine the applicability of an ultrasound measurement of the psoas muscle diameter in patients with decompensated liver cirrhosis and to assess whether this surrogate is associated with hospitalization due to decompensation and mortality. MethodsIn 75 consecutive patients with decompensated liver cirrhosis and in 20 control subjects (January 2016 to November 2017), psoas muscle diameter was prospectively measured. The reliable measurements were used for the further analysis. Relevant clinical and laboratory data was collected. ResultsUltrasound measurement was applicable in 100% of control and in 72% of study subjects. Psoas to height ratio was significantly related to hospitalization and mortality (p < 0.0001, HR 0.717, 95% CI: 0.622–0.828 and p = 0.022; HR = 0.825, 95% CI: 0.701–0.973) as was psoas muscle index (p < 0.0001, HR = 0.881, 95% CI: 0.836–0.929 and p = 0.017; HR = 0.930, 95% CI: 0.876–0.987). ConclusionsUltrasound measurement of psoas muscle diameter and its derived indices is applicable and associated with hospitalization and mortality in patients with decompensated liver cirrhosis.