Changes in body composition after spasticity treatment with intrathecal baclofen
Olle Skogberg, Kersti Samuelsson, Per Ertzgaard
1Clinical Department of Rehabilitation Medicine and Department of Medicine and Health Sciences, Linköping University, SE-585 85 Linköping, Sweden.
Journal of Rehabilitation Medicine
|January 20, 2017
Summary
Intrathecal baclofen therapy for spasticity may lead to unfavorable body composition changes, including increased fat mass and decreased lean mass. Monitoring and interventions like diet and exercise may be needed to mitigate risks.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Metabolic Medicine
- Clinical Research
Background:
- Intrathecal baclofen therapy (ITB) is a treatment for spasticity.
- Changes in body composition and metabolism are potential side effects of ITB.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effects of ITB on body composition, body weight, and resting metabolic rate in patients with spasticity.
Main Methods:
- A prospective, longitudinal study with a pre/post design was conducted.
- Twelve patients receiving ITB for spasticity were assessed before and 12 months after treatment.
- Body composition, body weight, and resting metabolic rate were measured using skinfold calipers and oxygen consumption.
Main Results:
- Spasticity decreased significantly post-treatment.
- Mean fat body mass increased, while mean lean body mass decreased.
- Body weight showed a non-significant increase, and resting metabolic rate a non-significant decrease.
Conclusions:
- ITB may be associated with unfavorable changes in body composition, such as increased fat mass.
- These changes could increase cardiovascular risk, suggesting a need for countermeasures.
- Further research with larger samples is required to confirm these findings.
