Sarcopenia and peripheral arterial disease: a systematic review

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Vascular Medicine
• Muscle Physiology

Background:

• Lower extremity peripheral arterial disease (PAD) and sarcopenia affect at-risk patient populations.
• These conditions necessitate targeted medical care and interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review studies linking sarcopenia and PAD.
• To identify shared pathophysiological mechanisms.
• To explore potential therapeutic strategies for improving skeletal muscle function in PAD patients.

Main Methods:

• A systematic review adhering to PRISMA guidelines was conducted.
• Data from 140 publications were evaluated, with 79 included in the final analysis.
• Included studies covered epidemiological, diagnostic, mechanical, and therapeutic aspects.

Main Results:

• Sarcopenia was present in 34.63% of 2362 PAD patients studied.
• PAD patients exhibited altered muscle strength, impaired histology, increased oxidative stress, and inflammation.
• Common mechanisms include oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, inflammation, and altered signaling pathways.

Conclusions:

• Sarcopenia and PAD share underlying pathophysiological mechanisms, including oxidative stress, inflammation, and altered signaling pathways.
• These shared factors negatively impact skeletal muscle function and patient prognosis.
• While exercise is beneficial, further research into targeted therapies is warranted.