Current application and future directions for the sarcopenic obesity Global Leadership Initiative (SOGLI) diagnostic...

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Metabolic Diseases
• Clinical Diagnostics

Background:

• Sarcopenic obesity (SO) is defined by excess fat and diminished muscle mass/function.
• The Sarcopenic Obesity Global Leadership Initiative (SOGLI) developed a diagnostic algorithm in 2022 to standardize SO identification.
• The algorithm integrates screening, diagnostic assessment, and staging for SO.

Purpose of the Study:

• To critically evaluate the application and utility of the SOGLI algorithm.
• To identify the strengths and limitations of the SOGLI algorithm in clinical practice.
• To suggest potential areas for refinement and improvement of the SOGLI algorithm.

Main Methods:

• A narrative review methodology was employed with systematic citation tracking.
• Literature searches were conducted across PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases.
• Original studies utilizing the SOGLI algorithm in adult populations were synthesized for data extraction.

Main Results:

• Seventy-two studies adopted the SOGLI algorithm, demonstrating varied approaches in clinical settings.
• Obesity screening often used BMI and waist circumference; sarcopenia screening tools were less consistently reported.
• Bioelectrical impedance analysis and hand-grip strength were common for body composition and muscle function assessment, respectively.
• SO was consistently associated with increased chronic disease burden, functional decline, and mortality.

Conclusions:

• The SOGLI algorithm shows significant adoption, marking a key advancement in SO diagnosis.
• Inconsistencies in screening and staging highlight opportunities for algorithm refinement.
• Further standardization and incorporation of novel biomarkers can enhance the clinical utility of the SOGLI algorithm.