Markers for the Prediction of Probably Sarcopenia in Middle-Aged Individuals

Sarcopenia is a condition that is characterized by a progressive loss of muscle mass, strength, and function, resulting in reduced quality of life. The aim of the study was to analyze the significance of pro-inflammatory markers in the prognostic diagnosis of sarcopenia. The participants were divided into two groups: the main group of 146 people and the control—75 people. The complex of examinations included neuropsychological testing (Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), quality-of-life questionnaire for patients with sarcopenia (SarQoL), and short health assessment form (MOS SF-36)), a 6 m walking speed test, manual dynamometry, bioimpedancemetry, and metabolic markers (nitrates, fibroblast growth factor 21, and malondialdehyde). When analyzing metabolic markers in the main group, a twofold increase in nitrates in the main group was recorded in a subsequent analysis adjusted for multiple variables, there was a negative association between the nitrate levels for weak grip strength and appendicular muscle mass. An additional analysis revealed that the complaint of pain in the lower extremities was more frequent in patients of the main group, as well as constipation and the pathology of thyroid gland, and they were more frequently diagnosed with arterial hypertension. At the same time, patients from the main group more frequently took vitamin D. When conducting body composition, the main group recorded a higher weight visceral fat content, as well as a decrease in appendicular and skeletal muscle mass; these changes were accompanied by a decrease in protein and minerals. Among the markers that differed significantly were nitrates, and it was this that was associated with decreased muscle strength and appendicular mass, which may indicate both a possible mechanism and a possible predictive marker. The results of this study can be used to develop a screening method for diagnosing sarcopenia at the outpatient stage.