Osteosarcopenia: where osteoporosis and sarcopenia collide

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Bone and Muscle Biology
• Metabolic Diseases

Background:

• Osteoporosis and sarcopenia are distinct conditions characterized by low bone mass and muscle loss, respectively.
• Their coexistence, termed 'osteosarcopenia,' is increasingly recognized, particularly in aging populations.
• Osteosarcopenia significantly elevates risks of falls, fractures, institutionalization, and mortality.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the epidemiology, pathogenesis, and clinical consequences of osteosarcopenia.
• To explore current and potential future management strategies for osteosarcopenia.

Main Methods:

• This review synthesizes existing literature on osteosarcopenia.
• It examines multifactorial etiologies, including genetics, age, inflammation, and obesity.
• Biochemical pathways linking muscle and bone are identified.

Main Results:

• The prevalence of osteosarcopenia is projected to rise with an aging global population.
• Shared risk factors and pathophysiological pathways link osteoporosis and sarcopenia.
• Promising therapeutic targets are emerging from identified biochemical pathways.

Conclusions:

• Osteosarcopenia represents a significant health challenge with substantial personal and societal burden.
• Understanding the interplay between bone and muscle is crucial for effective management.
• Future therapeutic strategies may target both conditions concurrently.