Changes in body composition and bone mineral density in postmenopausal women with psoriatic arthritis

Prolonged inflammation status due to psoriatic arthritis (PsA) may contribute to the loss of muscle mass, extending from muscle weakness, and increased risk of falls and fractures. The risk of fractures and their complications increases with concomitant osteoporosis.

The study included 95 women aged 50-75 years. The presence of sarcopenia was evaluated in a group of 51 women with PsA, and 44 controls (without inflammatory joint disease). Measurements of muscle mass and lean body mass were made using the method of bioimpedance assessing ALM (Appendicular Lean Mass) index and SMI (Skeletal Muscle Index). The diagnosis of sarcopenia was made in women with low muscle mass and concomitant reduction of the efficiency of the assessed functional test Timed Up and Go (TUG). Bone density measurement was done by densitometry in the femoral neck and lumbar spine. (Ethics statement OIL 625/16/Bioet).

Sarcopenia, using ALM index and SMI, was diagnosed in 13.7% and 43.1% of PsA women, and in healthy women in 9% and 20.4%, respectively. In the group of PsA, sarcopenia was associated with a significant increase in the occurrence of disorders of bone mineralisation (72.7% vs. 41.3% in patients without a decrease in muscle mass). There was no correlation between the loss of muscle mass, bone density, and activity of PsA.

The prevalence of sarcopenia in postmenopausal women suffering from PsA is associated with the occurrence of osteoporosis.