Muscle abnormalities in patients with liver cirrhosis and its effect on muscle function

Area of Science:

• Hepatology
• Gerontology
• Radiology

Background:

• Chronic liver disease progression involves metabolic changes affecting body composition and physical function.
• Muscle wasting and myosteatosis (fat accumulation in muscle) are common, leading to decreased muscle strength and poorer prognoses.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the relationship between computed tomography (CT)-derived muscle mass and muscle radiodensity (myosteatosis) and muscle strength in advanced chronic liver disease patients.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional study analyzed CT images at the L3 vertebra for skeletal muscle index (SMI) and skeletal muscle radiodensity (SMD).
• Handgrip strength (HGS) was measured using dynamometry.
• Correlations between body composition and HGS were assessed, with multivariable regression identifying factors associated with HGS.

Main Results:

• SMI and SMD positively correlated with muscle strength (r=0.46 and 0.25).
• Age and Model for End-Stage Liver Disease (MELD) score showed strong negative correlations with muscle strength (r=-0.37 and -0.34).
• Multivariable analysis revealed comorbidities (≥1), MELD score, and SMI significantly associated with HGS.

Conclusions:

• Low muscle mass and disease severity indicators negatively impact muscle strength in liver cirrhosis patients.
• CT-derived measures of muscle mass and quality are relevant in assessing physical function in this population.