Diagnosis and evaluation of sarcopenic obesity

Sarcopenia is primarily an age-related skeletal muscle disorder. Earlier defined by reduced muscle mass, its definition, shaped by various expert consensus groups, has evolved to include decreased muscle strength and impaired physical function as well. Obesity, which is generally described based on body mass index, is now redefined as a complex, adiposity-based chronic disease. Both sarcopenia and obesity are heterogeneous syndromes resulting in physical disability, falls, and cardiometabolic risk. The convergence of these two conditions, sarcopenic obesity, has recently come to the forefront as a significant health concern, due to the growing aging population and rising prevalence of obesity. The lack of standardized diagnostic criteria has significantly contributed to disparities in their reported prevalence and also hindered diagnosis and management. A universally accepted definition remains elusive. This review is a comprehensive overview of the definitions and the ontogeny of diagnostic criteria for sarcopenia, obesity, and sarcopenic obesity.