The effect of different measurement modalities in the association of lean mass with mortality: A systematic review and meta-analysis

OBJECTIVES: Lean mass is commonly measured by 3 modalities, dual energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA), bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA), and computerized tomography (CT). CT is considered the most accurate, while lean mass measured by DXA and BIA often consists of non-muscle compartment, and hence considered less accurate when compared with CT. It remains unclear if the association of lean mass with mortality would differ using different measurement modalities. METHODS: A systematic review and meta-analysis of lean mass and mortality was conducted. The analysis was stratified by different measurement modalities and health conditions. Pooled hazard ratios were estimated using a random effects model. RESULTS: This meta-analysis included 188 studies with 98 468 participants. Reduced lean mass measured by BIA, DXA, and CT, was associated with increased risk of mortality with a hazard ratio (HR) of 1.35 (95% CI, 1.21–1.49), 1.18 (95% CI, 1.06–1.30), and 1.44 (95% CI, 1.32–1.57), respectively. Similarly, low lean mass defined by BIA-, DXA-, and CT-measurement was associated with increased risk of mortality, with an HR of 1.81 (95% CI, 1.56–2.10), 1.44 (95% CI, 1.29–1.60), and 1.78 (95% CI, 1.64–1.93). CONCLUSIONS: Reduced and low lean mass were robustly associated with increased mortality in studies using different measurement modalities.