Markers Of Malnutrition Research Articles

Effect of Hemodiafiltration on Obestatin Hormone Level as a Marker of Malnutrition in Prevalent Hemodialysis Patients

Abstract Background and Aim Obestatin, is a ghrelin-associated peptide have anorexigenic effect, known as appetite regulatory hormone, we postulated a potential correlation between obestatin level and malnutrition in hemodialysis (HD) patients. Measurement of obestatin concentration in HD patients would help assess the potential contribution of this hormone to uremic protein energy wasting. The purpose of this study was to assay effect of hemodiafiltration (HDF) on serum level of obestatin in HD patients. Patients and Methods We Conducted a cross sectional analytical study of the patients with ESRD undergoing HD recruited from the Department of Nephrology, Ain Shams University hospitals. Serum level of obestatin pre and post sessions was measured using enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) in 40 prevalent hemodialysis patients: 20 on high flux HD & 20 on online HDF. 20 healthy individuals served as controls. Full history in details was taken & full clinical examination was done with the calculation of Malnutrition-Inflammation Score (MIS). Routine labs were done as well. Results Anthropometric measurements were significantly lower in HD & HDF groups compared with control group, Obestatin level was significantly higher in HD & HDF groups in comparison to control group. (P value < 0.000), with higher obestatin reduction ratio post sessions in HDF group than HD group. (P value < 0.001). Plasma obestatin concentration were negatively correlated with BMI & S. iron (P value < 0.05), while positively correlated with creatinine, urea, uric acid and CRP (P value < 0.05). Conclusion The current observational data suggests obestatin hormone was elevated in prevalent HD patients than control group & this hormone might be implicated in renal functions and markers of inflammation.

Prognostic nutritional index (PNI) correlates with survival in head and neck cancer patients more precisely than other nutritional markers – real world data

PurposeThe survival benefit with higher body mass index (BMI) of patients suffering from head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is documented as BMI paradox. As the early re-nourishment of high-risk patients determine survival, we searched for a nutritional status marker suitable for everyday screening. Grouping patients based on the 8th Edition of TNM Classification, we investigated for the first time the candidate nutritional status markers among TNM8 subgroups, including the newly introduced p16 positive oropharyngeal squamous cell cancer (OPSCC) patients.MethodsWe conducted a retrospective cohort study enrolling 661 patients and collecting anthropometric indices, laboratory parameters, clinical scores, nutritional risk scores. To discover the best one for screening survival analyses and correlation tests were executed.ResultsBy performing univariate Cox regression, we found three nutritional markers significantly correlating with overall survival (OS) and cancer specific survival (CSS): BMI at diagnosis, percent of weight loss over six months and prognostic nutritional index (PNI). The latter proved to be independent of tumor stage. p16 negative OPSCC patient’s OS and CSS did not correlate with BMI, but it did correlate with PNI and percent of weight loss. BMI was the only marker correlating with OS, only in stage 4 hypopharyngeal cancer patients. All three markers significantly correlated with survival among p16 positive oropharyngeal and glottic cancer patients.ConclusionWe found BMI, percent of weight loss and PNI good candidate markers for malnutrition. PNI proved to be superior in every aspect, enabling the treating physicians to discover high-risk patients in need of aggressive re-nourishment. The survival of supraglottic laryngeal squamous cancer patients seemed to be independent of these nutritional status markers, which observation should be a subject of further investigations.

Muscle matters: Prognostic implications of malnutrition and muscle health parameters in patients with cancer. A secondary analysis of a randomised trial

BackgroundLow muscle mass and malnutrition are independently associated with an increased risk of adverse outcomes in patients with cancer. However, it is not yet clear which parameter is most indicative of these risks. This study investigates the prognostic significance of different parameters reflecting malnutrition and muscle health in a well-characterised oncology population at nutritional risk. MethodsThis preplanned secondary analysis included patients with cancer from a Swiss-wide, randomised-controlled nutritional trial. We investigated associations among malnutrition markers (i.e., malnutrition diagnosis based on modified Global Leadership Initiative on Malnutrition (GLIM) criteria, albumin concentration) and muscle health markers (i.e., hand grip strength, computed tomography (CT)-based muscle mass and radiodensity) with 180-day all-cause mortality (primary outcome). ResultsWe included 269 patients with a main admission diagnosis of cancer and available CT scans. In a mutually adjusted model, four parameters contributed to risk assessment including modified malnutrition diagnosis (GLIM) (HR 1.78 (95%CI 1.17 to 2.69), p = 0.007, AUC 0.58), low albumin concentration (HR 1.58 (95%CI 1.08 to 2.31), p = 0.019, AUC 0.62), low handgrip strength (HR 2.05 (95%CI 1.43 to 2.93), p = 0.001, AUC 0.62) and low muscle radiodensity (HR 1.39 (95%CI 0.90 to 2.16), p = 0.139, AUC 0.63). Combining these parameters resulted in a model with high prognostic power regarding 180-day mortality (overall AUC 0.71). ConclusionsIn this study of inpatients with cancer at nutritional risk, several malnutrition and muscle health parameters emerged as independent prognostic indicators for mortality. The use of these parameters may improve risk stratification and guide nutritional interventions in this vulnerable population. Trial registrationClinicalTrials.gov, number NCT02517476.

Adipokines and Myokines as Markers of Malnutrition and Sarcopenia in Patients Receiving Kidney Replacement Therapy: An Observational, Cross-Sectional Study.

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is linked to an elevated risk of malnutrition and sarcopenia, contributing to the intricate network of CKD-related metabolic disorders. Adipokines and myokines are markers and effectors of sarcopenia and nutritional status. The aim of this study was to assess whether the adipokine-myokine signature in patients on kidney replacement therapy could help identify malnutrition and sarcopenia. The study involved three groups: 84 hemodialysis (HD) patients, 44 peritoneal dialysis (PD) patients, and 52 kidney transplant recipients (KTR). Mean age was 56.1 ± 16.3 years. Malnutrition was defined using the 7-Point Subjective Global Assessment (SGA) and the Malnutrition-Inflammation Score (MIS). Sarcopenia was diagnosed based on reduced handgrip strength (HGS) and diminished muscle mass. Concentrations of adipokines and myokines were determined using the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). 32.8% of all study participants were identified as malnourished and 20.6% had sarcopenia. For malnutrition, assessed using the 7-Point SGA, in ROC analysis albumin (area under the curve (AUC) 0.67 was the best single biomarker identified. In dialysis patients, myostatin (AUC 0.79) and IL-6 (AUC 0.67) had a high discrimination value for sarcopenia, and we were able to develop a prediction model for sarcopenia, including age, albumin, adiponectin, and myostatin levels, with an AUC of 0.806 (95% CI: 0.721-0.891). Adipokines and myokines appear to be useful laboratory markers for assessing malnutrition and sarcopenia. The formula we propose could contribute to a better understanding of sarcopenia and potentially lead to more effective interventions and management strategies for dialysis patients.

Association of Serum M2BPGi Levels with Nutritional Status (Using CONUT score) in Hepatitis C Virus Related Compensated Liver Cirrhosis Patients

Abstract Background Protein-energy malnutrition (PEM), which is one of the most common complications seen in LC patients and associated with high morbidity and mortality. So, predicting the presence of PEM and providing appropriate nutritional support help improve the prognosis of those patients. Mac-2-binding protein glycosylation isomer (M2BPGi) was recently identified as a serum glycobiomarker for liver fibrosis. However, the relationship between M2BPGi and malnutrition in patients with chronic liver disease (CLD) is unclear. Aim of the Work The aim of this study is to evaluate the role of serum M2BPGi levels as a surrogate marker for malnutrition in HCV related cirrhotic patients, correlated with CONUT score as the nutritional status marker. Patients and Methods This is a Cross-sectional - Analytic study that included patients with chronic HCV infection and normal control group selected from patients attending to Hepatology Outpatient Clinics at Ain Shams University Hospital. This study was carried out from 30 patients (child A) attending to Hepatology Outpatient Clinics at Ain Shams University Hospital and 30 healthy individuals as a control. Results The M2BPGi levels increased with CONUT score. The correlation coefficient between M2BPGi and CONUT score was r = 0.315 (p = 0.05), indicating a positive weak correlation between M2BPGi and CONUT score. The cut-off for M2BPGi to predict CONUT low vs. moderate was 1.43 with a sensitivity 93.33% and specificity 100% when AUC =0.9 and CONUT moderate vs. severe was 1.7 with a sensitivity 91.67% and specificity 100% when AUC =0.9. Conclusion We found that there is correlation between M2BPGi and CONUT score and both can be useful as a marker for malnutrition in HCV related cirrhotic patients cut of point

Malnutrition-Related Liver Steatosis, CONUT Score and Poor Clinical Outcomes in an Internal Medicine Department.

Fatty liver disease has been identified as a marker of malnutrition in different clinical settings. Recently, the COntrolling NUTritional status score (CONUT score) emerged as a promising tool for malnutrition assessment. Our aim was to evaluate short-term outcomes among patients with malnutrition-related liver steatosis in an Internal Medicine department. Furthermore, we evaluated the association of the CONUT score with malnutrition-related liver steatosis. Data from 247 patients hospitalized in an Internal Medicine department were retrospectively collected. The study population was stratified into three groups based on hepatic radiodensity assessed with computed tomography: mild steatosis (≥56.1 HU), moderate steatosis (between 49.7 and 56 HU), and severe steatosis (≤49.6 HU). We then calculated the CONUT score. Severe steatosis patients had higher in-hospital mortality (18.2 vs. 15.5%) and longer in-hospital stays compared with the mild steatosis group (length of in-hospital stay longer than 12 days: 45% vs. 40%). Logistic regression analysis showed that severe steatosis was not significantly associated with in-hospital all-cause death, while a high CONUT score was an independent risk factor for sepsis. We found an independent relationship between malnutrition-associated liver steatosis and the CONUT score. These results identified the CONUT score as a tool for nutritional assessment of hospitalized patients.

Differences in the Evaluation of Malnutrition and Body Composition Using Bioelectrical Impedance Analysis, Nutritional Ultrasound, and Dual-Energy X-ray Absorptiometry in Patients with Heart Failure.

Although malnutrition is frequently observed in patients with heart failure (HF), this diagnosis should be performed carefully since HF itself is associated with increased inflammatory activity, which affects body weight, functionality, and some nutritional parameters; thus, its isolated interpretation can erroneously identify surrogate markers of severity as markers of malnutrition. In this context, we aimed to evaluate the prevalence of malnutrition using different classification systems and perform a comprehensive nutritional evaluation to determine the reliability of different diagnostic techniques. Eighty-three patients with a recent hospital admission due to HF were evaluated. GLIM diagnosis criteria and subjective global assessment (SGA) were performed; a comprehensive anthropometric, functional, and biochemical nutritional evaluation was performed, in which bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA), nutritional ultrasound, and dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) were performed. Additionally, mortality and additional admissions due to HF were determined after a mean follow up of 18 months. Malnutrition according to the GLIM criteria (54%) accurately distinguished patients with impaired functionality, lower lean mass, skeletal mass index, and appendicular muscle mass (BIA), as well as lower trunk fat mass, trunk lean mass, fat-free mass (DXA), and decreased albumin and increased C-reactive protein serum levels. According to SGA, there were significant changes in body composition parameters determined by BIA, muscle ultrasound, and functional tests between well-nourished patients and patients with risk of malnutrition (53.7%) or who had malnutrition (7.1%), but not when the last two groups were compared. BIA and DXA showed strong correlations when evaluating muscle and fat mass in HF patients, but correlations with nutritional ultrasound were limited, as well as functional tests. A multivariate analysis showed that no significant association was observed between body composition and mortality, but preperitoneal fat was associated with an increased risk of new hospital admissions (OR: 0.73). GLIM criteria identified a lower percentage of patients with HF and malnutrition compared with SGA; thus, SGA could have a role in preventing malnutrition in HF patients. Nutritional evaluation with BIA and DXA in patients with HF showed reliable results of body composition parameters in HF, and both help with the diagnosis of malnutrition according to the GLIM or SGA criteria and could provide complementary information in some specific cases.

ARTERIAL STIFFNESS ASSOCIATES WITH MALNUTRITION IN HYPERTENSIVE PATIENTS WITH CONCOMITANT CHRONIC PANCREATITIS

Objective: The association between pancreatitis and cardiovascular diseases remains incompletely understood. Malnutrition in chronic pancreatitis may be associated with an increase in arterial stiffness in hypertension. Objective: to evaluate interaction between malnutrition markers and arterial stiffness in patients with hypertension and chronic pancreatitis. Design and method: Methods: 70 non-diabetic patients with 1st degree hypertension with concomitant chronic pancreatitis (median age – 52,4 [43,8;63,7] years) were included in the study. We divided all included patients into two groups: 1st group – 41 patients with malnutrition, 2nd group – 29 patients without malnutrition. Standard laboratory blood tests, haematological parameters, lipid profile, glucose, renal and liver function tests, pancreatic fecal elastase-1, total protein, serum albumin, serum iron, vitamin 25(OH)D, serum zinc and magnesium detection were performed for all patients. The groups were comparable in terms of age, gender structure, functional state of the kidneys. Non-parametric methods were used for statistical data analysis. To determine the prognostic significance, the ROC analysis was performed. Significant differences were considered when the p-value was p<0.001 Results: In patients with a combined course of hypertension and chronic pancreatitis with established malnutrition, an increase in arterial stiffness was significantly more often compared to patients with normal nutritional status - 83% and 62%, respectively (p<0.001). A significantly lower level of brachial artery augmentation index was established by 43% (p<0.001) in the first group. It was established that patients with malnutrition had a significantly higher caritid-femoral pulse wave velocity by 17.5% (p<0.001). Correlations were established between brachial artery augmentation index and serum levels of zinc (R=0.63, p<0.001), magnesium (R=0.66, p<0.001), albumin (R=0.58, p<0.001), vitamin 25(OH)D (R=0.68, p<0.001) in patients with the combined course of hypertension and chronic pancreatitis. ROC analysis revealed that serum zinc level had an excellent diagnostic power for arterial stiffness in hypertensive patients with chronic pancreatitis (AUC = 0.910). Serum albumin had very good diagnostic power for arterial stiffness in hypertensive patients with chronic pancreatitis (AUC = 0.859). Conclusions: Arterial stiffness may be associated with malnutrition in hypertensive patients with concomitant chronic pancreatitis.

Transferrin levels are associated with malnutrition markers in hemodialysis patients in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa

Introduction Malnutrition is a global phenomenon and may be contributing to the increasing size of the hemodialysis (HD) population in South Africa and is affecting morbidity and clinical outcomes. Our study assessed whether transferrin could be a possible marker for malnutrition in the HD population. Methods Clinical parameters (including skinfold thickness and mid-upper arm circumference [MUAC]) and laboratory markers (including transferrin and hemoglobin) were measured during a six-month period in a sample of 59 HD patients. Results Linear regression analysis showed that MUAC (p = 0.027) as well as skinfold thickness (p = 0.021) had a significant association with transferrin levels within the HD participants. There was no significant association between transferrin levels or MUAC with hemoglobin levels (p = 0.075). Furthermore, the study found that decreased transferrin levels (< 2.15 g/dL to 3.80 g/dL) were closely related to malnutrition in the malnutrition distribution groups within the study, with 97.7% of HD participants being classified in one of the malnutrition groups. Conclusion Thus, transferrin levels are a valuable marker for malnutrition within the HD patient population and can be included along with clinical assessment parameters such as MUAC and skinfold thickness as primary indicators for malnutrition.

Impact of Preoperative Serum Albumin Level on the Outcome of Colorectal Cancer Surgery.

Background Gastrointestinal malignancy surgeries are known to have a risk of postoperative complications. Preoperative nutritional status has been suggested as a potential predictor of postoperative outcomes, with low serum albumin levels utilized as a marker of malnutrition and increased risk of postoperative complications. This paper investigated the association between preoperative serum albumin levels and postoperative outcomes in patients undergoing colorectal cancer surgery. Methods This retrospective data-maintained study was based on all patients aged 18 years and above who underwent colorectal cancer surgery at King Abdulaziz Medical City, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia between 2015 and 2022. Results A total of 400 patients were included in the study. With an average age of 64.43 years. Males represented 254 (63%) of the patients, while females accounted for 146 (37%). Thirty percent of patients had hypoalbuminemia (i.e., albumin level below 35 g/L) before surgery. Among the sample, 112 (28%) experienced complications after surgery. The mean albumin level for patients who experienced postoperative complications was 30.46 g/L while patients without complications had a normal albumin level. As for the length of hospital stay, it was eight days for patients with a normal albumin level and 23 days for hypoalbuminemia patients. Conclusion In conclusion, preoperative hypoalbuminemia is associated with poor patient outcomes and can be utilized as a prognostic marker for patients in need of colorectal cancer surgery.

Dietary acid load and markers of malnutrition, inflammation, and oxidative stress in hemodialysis patients.

The present study was conducted to examine the association between dietary acid load (DAL) and markers of inflammation, oxidative stress, and malnutrition in a group of Iranian hemodialysis (HD) patients. This cross-sectional study was performed on individuals aged ≥18 years who were on HD at least 6 months before their enrollment in the study. A 4-day dietary recall was used for the evaluation of dietary intake. DAL was calculated using two methods including potential renal acid load (PRAL) and net endogenous acid production (NEAP). For assessing the malnutrition status, we used the subjective global assessment (SGA), dialysis malnutrition score (DMS), and malnutrition inflammation score (MIS). Fasting blood samples were collected from each participant to assess serum levels of high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), soluble intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (sICAM-1), soluble vascular adhesion molecule-1 (sVCAM-1), sE-selectin, malondialdehyde (MDA), nitric oxide (NO), and endothelin-1. In total, 291 patients with a mean age of 57.73 ± 0.88 years and HD vintage of 4.27 ± 0.25 months were enrolled in the current study. Significant positive associations were observed between PRAL and hs-CRP (β = 1.77, 95% CI: 0.88, 2.65), sICAM-1 (β = 83.21, 95% CI: 10.39, 156.04), sVCAM-1 (β = 194.63, 95% CI: 74.68, 314.58), and sE-selectin (β = 6.66, 95% CI: 1.81, 11.50) among participants with the highest PRAL scores, compared to those with the lowest PRAL scores. NEAP was positively correlated with hs-CRP (β = 1.34, 95% CI: 0.46, 2.22), sICAM-1 (β = 88.83, 95% CI: 16.99, 160.67), and MDA (β = 0.35, 95% CI: 0.005, 0.71). Additionally, marginally significant higher odds of SGA (OR = 1.98, 95% CI: 0.95, 4.11) and DMS (OR = 1.94, 95% CI: 0.92, 4.05) were observed in individuals in the third tertile of PRAL vs. the first tertile of PRAL. NEAP had also a marginally significant positive correlation with DMS (OR = 2.01, 95% CI: 0.93, 4.31). This study illustrates that higher consumption of acidic foods is correlated with markers of inflammation, oxidative stress, and malnutrition in HD patients.

Is Potential Malnutrition Associated with Increased Morbidity in Total Hip and Knee Joint Arthroplasty? A Prospective Cohort Study

Introduction: Malnutrition is considered a risk factor for post-operative complications in total hip and knee arthroplasty, though prospective studies to investigate this assumption are lacking. The aims of this study were to prospectively analyze the 90-day post-operative complications, post-operative length of stay (LOS), and readmission rates of patients undergoing primary total hip and total knee arthroplasty using albumin, total lymphocyte count (TLC), and transferrin as serum markers of potential malnutrition. Materials and Methods: Six hundred and three primary hip and 823 primary knee arthroplasties over a 3-year period from a single center were prospectively analyzed. Body mass index, demographic, and comorbidity data were recorded. Complications were categorized as surgical site infection (SSI), venous thromboembolism (VTE) (deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolus), implant-related (such as dislocation), and non-implant-related (such as pneumonia). Outcomes were compared between groups, with malnutrition, defined as serum albumin &lt;3.5 g/dL. Results: Potential malnutrition was present in 9.3% of the study population. This group experienced a longer average LOS at 6.5 days compared to the normal albumin group at 5.0 days (P = 0.003). SSI rate was higher in the malnourished group (12.5 vs. 7.8%, P = 0.02). There was no difference between the two groups in implant-related complications (0.8 vs. 1.0%, P = 0.95) medical complications (7.8 vs. 13.3%, P = 0.17), rate of VTE (2.3 vs. 2.7%) or 90-day readmission rate (14.1 vs. 17.0%, P = 0.56). TLC and transferrin were not predictive of any of the primary outcomes measured (P &gt; 0.05). Pacific Island (P &lt; 0.001), Indian (P = 0.02), and Asian (P = 0.02) patients had lower albumin than NZ European. Conclusion: This study demonstrates an association between low albumin levels and increased post-operative LOS and SSI in total joint arthroplasty, providing support for the consideration of pre-operative nutritional screening. Keywords: Knee arthroplasty, hip arthroplasty, malnutrition, post-operative complications, hypoalbuminemia.

What is the most pertinent definition of malnutrition in epithelial ovarian cancer to assess morbidity and mortality?

IntroductionMalnutrition is common in ovarian cancer and is a major cause of morbidity and mortality. We aimed to define the most pertinent way to assess malnutrition in patients with epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) in order to study its impact on morbidity (intra and post-operative complications) and survival (OS, overall survival and RFS, recurrence-free survival). MethodsWe retrospectively included all patients with EOC from 2003 to 2020. Nutritional status was assessed using the weight loss at diagnosis (more or <5%), albuminemia, the Nutritional Risk Index (NRI), and the Malnutrition Universal Screening Tool (MUST). ResultsSix hundred and fifteen patients were included. Among them, 34% declared having lost >5% of their usual weight, 58% had an albuminemia <35 g/L, 86% presented an abnormal NRI and 29% an abnormal MUST score. After univariate analysis, weight loss>5% appeared to be significantly associated with RFS. An abnormal NRI or MUST score were significantly associated with a decrease in OS in univariate analysis. None of the markers of malnutrition studied were correlated with morbidity. ConclusionWe were not able to reach a consensus concerning the most accurate definition to define malnutrition and predict morbidity and mortality in EOC. However, this modifiable prognosis factor must be systematically assessed and managed accordingly.

Phase Angle and Body Composition As a Prognostic Factor in Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia

Acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL) is a malignant proliferation of lymphoid cells blocked at an early stage of differentiation that can invade bone marrow, blood, and extramedullary sites. Age specific incidence is highest in children aged 1-4 years, then drops sharply through childhood (5-14 years), adolescence and young adulthood (AYA) (15-39 years), reaching the lowest point between 25 years and 45 years. Bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) is a method used to estimate body composition and cell membrane integrity. BIA is a useful tool as it is non-invasive, relatively inexpensive, can be performed on nearly any patient, does not expose the patient to ionizing radiation, is painless, and has both high intra and inter observer precision (coefficient of variation = 2.7%-4.0%). Phase angle (PhA) is obtained by BIA and is associated with cellular function. It is considered a reliable marker of malnutrition. PhA has been shown to predict survival in solid malignancies and hematopoietic stem cell transplant patients. To date, no studies have evaluated the usage of PhA in ALL patients. Therefore, this retrospective study sought to establish the prognostic significance of baseline PhA and lean mass index on OS and LFS in newly diagnosed ALL patients receiving intensive chemotherapy. Retrospective, cross-section, observational and descriptive study. The records of patients who received intensive chemotherapy from January 2019 to January 2023 were reviewed. Statistical analysis The qualitative variables were studied in frequencies and proportions, the quantitative variables were grouped into medians and ranges. OS and LFS were determined using Kaplan-Meier survival curves with log-Rank with a significant p &amp;lt;0.05 value. Statistical analysis was performed with SPSS version 25 and GraphPad Prism version 9.5.0. Results 85 patients were included, 56.7% (48) men and 43.5% (37) women. 79 patients with ALL-B and 6 patients ALL-T. The mean age was 25 years. 68 were AYA population and 17 not-AYA. The CR was 89%, ND MRD was 57%. The chemotherapy for AYA was CALGB 10403, and not AYA was Hyper-CVAD. Relapse was documented in 38%. The mean body mass index was 26.98±5.27 kg/m 2. The mean PhA was 4.547±0.9983°. The mean lean mass index was 17.8 (12.9-35.5) kg/m 2. The mean fat mass index was 9.195±4.425 kg/m 2. The mean OS was 86% at 1 year and OS at 3 years was 64.5%. The results that were statistically significant in LFS compared by Kaplan Meier curves were: male vs female p=0.0344, PhA &amp;gt;4, p=0.0235, lean mass index ≥16, p=0.0111. Conclusions In conclusion, our findings suggest that in newly diagnosed ALL patients undergoing intensive induction chemotherapy, PhA may provide important prognostic information for LFS and OS. PhA is an objective, repeatable, high-precision measure in ALL patients and, unlike other prognostic factors in this population, is potentially subject to intervention. Future studies of PhA in ALL patients should address the content validity of phase angle while further exploring the promising findings of the effect of strength training and nutritional supplementation on PhA and patient outcomes.

The impact of home enteral nutrition planned with the use of indirect calorimetry on the nutritional status and body composition of cancer patients

BackgroundStudies show that malnutrition is common among cancer patients, ranging from about 20% to more than 70%. It is known that malnutrition that is not managed properly worsens the course of the disease, prolongs the hospital stay, and impacts the quality of life and treatment toxicities. Malnutrition has many negative effects, therefore individualization and optimization of nutritional support is crucial for the patient's health. This study aimed to assess the impact of home enteral nutrition (HEN) planned with the use of indirect calorimetry on the nutritional status and body composition of cancer patients. MethodsThis prospective, observational study included 28 patients with cancer recruited at the Nutrition Clinic of Department of General, Gastroenterologic and Oncologic Surgery, of the Medical University of Warsaw from December 2021 to December 2022. All patients were supported with HEN setup based on individual caloric needs for 3 months. We evaluated nutritional status, body composition, and biochemical markers of malnutrition. ResultsFor 67.9 % of patients, using the equations rather than indirect calorimetry would underestimate energy needs. Individualized HEN resulted in weight loss stops in 46.4 % of patients. The average change in body mass in the study group was positive and was equal to 0.46 ± 6.73 kg. No significant differences were found when comparing the mid-arm circumference (MAC) and triceps skinfold thickness (SFT) before and after inclusion in HEN, although, as in the case of body mass SFT showed an upward trend. Moreover, the percentage of patients with insufficient total protein (TP) and serum albumin concentrations decreased. This difference was statistically significant for albumin. The Nutritional Risk Index (NRI) was also significantly higher. The analysis of body composition also showed a decrease in the percentage of patients with reduced fat-free mass (FFM), body cell mass (BCM), and phase angle (PhA) value. ConclusionsThe results of our research highlight the significance of well-planned nutritional care for cancer patients. Utilizing HEN and individualized approaches can effectively preserve body mass, composition, and nutritional status while minimizing safety risks, ultimately improving quality of life. Indirect calorimetry if available can be helpful to optimize nutrition care for patients with cancer in HEN.

Role of Malnutrition in Atrial Fibrillation: A Prospective Study including Individuals ≥ 75 Years of Age.

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common rhythm disorder in the elderly. The AF can cause life-threatening thromboembolic complications. Therefore, there is a need to determine the risk factors of AF. In this study, we aimed to examine the association of markers of malnutrition with AF in individuals aged 75 years and older and to find the factors that may affect mortality. In this prospective study, 358 consecutive individuals aged 75 years and older presenting to the cardiology outpatient clinic were included. All participants were divided into AF and sinus rhythm (SR) groups. In addition, a questionnaire and scoring system were used to assess malnutrition status. Information was obtained from all patients through outpatient clinic visits or telephone interviews for one year. Death from any cause was considered as the endpoint. AF was observed in 71 (19.8%) patients. Death was higher in patients with AF (p < 0.001), high CONUT score (p = 0.018), and GLIM malnutrition (p = 0.018). GLIM malnutrition caused a 2.8-fold increase in the development of AF. Screening for malnutrition in the elderly is essential. According to GLIM criteria, malnutrition may play a role in the development of AF and increase one-year mortality in the elderly.

Evaluation of Albumin, Transferrin and Transthyretin in Inflammatory Bowel Disease Patients as Disease Activity and Nutritional Status Biomarkers.

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), which includes Crohn's disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC), is often accompanied by malnutrition that manifests itself as nutrient deficiencies and body mass loss or deficit. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the utility of albumin, transferrin and transthyretin levels in the assessment of nutritional status and IBD activity. The case-control study included 82 IBD patients. The serum concentrations of albumin, transferrin and transthyretine were determined by a quantitative sandwich enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Significantly lower median concentrations of albumin were found in the IBD patients vs. controls and in CD patients compared to the UC patients. Significantly higher median transthyretin concentrations were found in the IBD patients compared to the healthy subjects. There were no significant differences in median transferrin concentrations between the IBD patients and the healthy subjects. Significantly higher albumin levels were found in IBD patients in remission compared to patients with moderate and severe exacerbation of IBD symptoms. There were no significant differences in the median transferrin or transthyretin levels in patients with IBD depending on disease activity. No differences were identified in the median transferrin or transthyretin levels in the IBD patients according to nutritional status. The median albumin concentrations in the IBD subjects were significantly higher in patients with normal body fat, normal BMI and normal waist circumferences compared to those with an abnormal nutritional status. The albumin levels reflect both nutritional status and disease activity and therefore cannot be considered a prognostic marker of malnutrition in IBD. As regards the utility of transferrin and transthyretin as markers of activity and nutritional status in IBD patients, further studies are required.

Triiodothyronine and Protein Malnutrition Could Influence Pulse Wave Velocity in Pre-Dialysis Chronic Kidney Disease Patients.

Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) are the first cause of chronic kidney disease (CKD) mortality. For personalized improved medicine, detecting correctable markers of CVD can be considered a priority. The aim of this study was the evaluation of the impact of nutritional, hormonal and inflammatory markers on brachial-ankle Pulse Wave Velocity (PWV) in pre-dialysis CKD patients. A cross-sectional observational study was conducted on 68 pre-dialysis CKD patients (median age of 69 years, 41.2% with diabetes mellitus, 52.9% male). Laboratory data were collected, including levels of prolactin, triiodothyronine, TGF α, IL-6, and IL-1β. The high values of brachial-ankle PWV were associated with reduced muscle mass (p = 0.001, r = -0.44), low levels of total cholesterol (p = 0.04, r = -0.26), triglycerides (p = 0.03, r = -0.31), triiodothyronine (p = 0.04, r = -0.24), and prolactin (p = 0.02, r = -0.27). High PWV was associated with advanced age (p < 0.001, r = 0.19). In the multivariate analysis, reduced muscle mass (p = 0.018), low levels of triiodothyronine (p = 0.002), and triglycerides (p = 0.049) were significant predictors of PWV, but age (p < 0.001) remained an important factor. In conclusion, reduced triiodothyronine together with markers of malnutrition and age were associated with PWV in pre-dialysis CKD patients.

Evaluation of sarcopenia in patients receiving intravesical Bacillus Calmette-Guérin for non-muscle invasive bladder cancer

BackgroundSarcopenia is associated with adverse outcomes for patients with muscle invasive bladder cancer (MIBC), but less is known about its impact in the setting of non-muscle invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC). Sarcopenia, skeletal muscle density, and adipose tissue area have been studied as markers of malnutrition and can be determined radiographically. The purpose of this study is to characterize the prevalence of sarcopenia in patients with NMIBC receiving intravesical Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG). MethodsFollowing institutional review board approval, patients with NMIBC having received intravesical BCG were identified using institutional pharmacy records. Patients having undergone computed tomography (CT) of the abdomen and pelvis within 90 days of treatment were included in the analysis. Using sliceOmatic 5.0 software, skeletal muscle area (cm2) was measured at the L3 level to calculate skeletal muscle index (SMI), a marker of sarcopenia. Subcutaneous, visceral, and intramuscular adipose tissue areas in addition to skeletal muscle density were also measured. Frailty was evaluated as a secondary aim using the 5-Item Modified Frailty Index (mFI-5). Using predefined cutoffs, the prevalence of sarcopenia was determined. Descriptive statistics were used to characterize frailty and secondary body composition characteristics. Statistical analysis was performed to evaluate the impact of sarcopenia on recurrence rate and progression. ResultsA total of 308 patients having received BCG between 2015 and 2020 were identified, of which 90 met criteria for analysis. Nearly all (94%) patients completed at least 5 out of 6 BCG induction instillations. Median body mass index (kg/m2) was 27.64 (IQR 24.9, 30.5) for females and 27.7 (IQR 24.9, 30.66) for males. Median SMI (cm2/m2) was 49.44 (IQR 39.39, 55.17) for females and 49.58 (IQR 40.25, 55.58) for males. A majority (61%) of patients were found to be sarcopenic. High-risk frailty was identified 36% of patients. There was no association between sarcopenia and recurrence rate or progression. ConclusionsSarcopenia and frailty are highly prevalent amongst patients with NMIBC. A diagnosis of NMIBC represents a window of opportunity to identify and intervene on modifiable risk factors such as sarcopenia and frailty, which are associated with adverse outcomes in more advanced disease states.

The Metabolic Vulnerability Index: A Novel Marker for Mortality Prediction in Heart Failure

BackgroundInflammation and protein energy malnutrition are associated with heart failure (HF) mortality. The metabolic vulnerability index (MVX) is derived from markers of inflammation and malnutrition and measured by nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. MVX has not been examined in HF. ObjectivesThe authors sought to examine the prognostic value of MVX in patients with HF. MethodsThe authors prospectively assembled a population-based cohort of patients with HF from 2003 to 2012 and measured MVX scores with a nuclear magnetic resonance scan from plasma collected at enrollment. Patients were divided into 4 MVX score groups and followed until March 31, 2021. ResultsThe authors studied 1,382 patients (median age: 78 years; 48% women). The median MVX score was 64.6. Patients with higher MVX were older, more likely to be male, have atrial fibrillation, and have a higher Meta-analysis Global Group in Chronic Heart Failure score. Higher MVX was associated with mortality independent of Meta-analysis Global Group in Chronic Heart Failure score, ejection fraction, and other prognostic biomarkers. Compared to those with the lowest MVX, the HRs for MVX groups 2, 3, and 4 were 1.1 (95% CI: 0.9-1.4), 1.5 (95% CI: 1.2-1.9), and 1.5 (95% CI: 1.2-1.9), respectively (Ptrend < 0.001). Measures of model improvement document the added value of MVX in HF for classifying the risk of death beyond the Meta-analysis Global Group in Chronic Heart Failure score and other biomarkers. ConclusionsIn this HF community cohort, MVX was strongly associated with mortality independently of established clinical factors and improved mortality risk classification beyond clinically validated markers. These data underscore the potential of MVX to stratify risk in HF.