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Body composition in advanced-stage Parkinson's disease
M L Petroni1, G Albani, V Bicchiega
1Nutrition Laboratory, Istituto Auxologico Italiano Piancavallo, I-28044, Verbania, Italy. dietologia_pcv@auxologico.it
Acta Diabetologica
|November 18, 2003
Summary
Advanced Parkinson's disease (PD) patients often exhibit sarcopenic obesity, characterized by excess fat and low muscle mass. Many also have low vitamin D levels and decreased bone density, potentially linked to inactivity.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Metabolic Health
- Bone Health
Background:
- Body composition in Parkinson's disease (PD) is not well understood.
- Advanced PD may involve complex metabolic and musculoskeletal changes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate body composition, bone mineral density, and vitamin D status in advanced Parkinson's disease.
Main Methods:
- Studied 35 advanced PD patients using anthropometry, dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA), and serum 25-OH vitamin D measurements.
- Assessed body mass index (BMI), mid-arm muscle circumference, bone mineral density (T and Z scores), and body fat percentage.
Main Results:
- 41% of patients had low serum 25-OH vitamin D.
- 23% showed low muscle mass (mid-arm muscle circumference < 10th percentile).
- 35% had decreased bone mineral density (T score < -1 SD).
- Average body fat percentage was 30.6%, with higher levels in females.
- Sarcopenic obesity was observed, alongside decreased bone mineral density and low vitamin D.
Conclusions:
- Advanced Parkinson's disease is associated with sarcopenic obesity and reduced bone mineral density.
- Low serum 25-OH vitamin D levels are common in this population.
- Reduced physical activity and sun exposure are potential contributing factors.