Fielding RA, Vellas B, Evans WJ, et al.
J Am Med Dir Assoc 2011;12:249-56
A meeting of the International Working Group on Sarcopenia, a group of scientists and geriatricians, was convened on November 18, 2009, in Rome, Italy, with the objective to develop a consensus definition of sarcopenia. The authors agreed on the following definition: “Sarcopenia is the age-associated loss of skeletal muscle mass and function. Sarcopenia is a complex syndrome that is associated with muscle mass loss alone or in conjunction with increased fat mass. The causes of sarcopenia are multifactorial and can include disuse, changing endocrine function, chronic diseases, inflammation, insulin resistance, and nutritional deficiencies. While cachexia may be a component of sarcopenia, the two conditions are not the same.” Sarcopenia represents a major cause of disability and increased health costs in older persons. It is very common but seldom recognized by physicians. The diagnosis of sarcopenia should be considered in all older patients who present with observed declines in physical function, strength, or overall health.