Advancements in sarcopenia diagnosis: from imaging techniques to non-radiation assessments

Abstract

Sarcopenia is a prevalent condition with significant clinical implications, and it is expected to escalate globally, demanding for effective diagnostic strategies, possibly at an early stage of the disease. Imaging techniques play a pivotal role in comprehensively evaluating sarcopenia, offering insights into both muscle quantity and quality. Among all the imaging techniques currently used for the diagnosis and follow up of sarcopenia, it is possible to distinguish two classes: Rx based techniques, using ionizing radiations, and non-invasive techniques, which are based on the use of safe and low risk diagnostic procedures. Dual-energy x-ray Absorptiometry and Computed Tomography, while widely utilized, entail radiation exposure concerns. Ultrasound imaging offers portability, real-time imaging, and absence of ionizing radiation, making it a promising tool Magnetic Resonance Imaging, particularly T1-weighted and Dixon sequences, provides cross- sectional and high-resolution images and fat-water separation capabilities, facilitating precise sarcopenia quantification. Bioelectrical Impedance Analysis (BIA), a non-invasive technique, estimates body composition, including muscle mass, albeit influenced by hydration status. Standardized protocols, such as those proposed by the Sarcopenia through Ultrasound (SARCUS) Working Group, are imperative for ensuring consistency across assessments. Future research should focus on refining these techniques and harnessing the potential of radiomics and artificial intelligence to enhance diagnostic accuracy and prognostic capabilities in sarcopenia.

Keywords: bioelectrical impedance analysis; computed tomography; dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry; magnetic resonance imaging; non-ionizing radiation; quantitative parameters; sarcopenia; ultrasound imaging.