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Osteosarcopenia is a newly reported syndrome that describes the co-existence of osteoporosis and sarcopenia. Osteosarcopenia causes an increase in morbidity and mortality, and reduces the quality of life, but it is expected to incur billions in annual health care costs over the coming decades. Its etiology is multi-factorial, with a combination of genetic, mechanical, biochemical, and lifestyle factors. Clinicians should screen for osteosarcopenia using imaging methods (e.g., dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry) to quantify muscle and bone mass, and assess muscle strength (e.g., grip strength) and functionality (e.g., gait speed). Lifestyle changes, exercise and nutritional interventions, such as protein supplementation, vitamin D and dietary intake of calcium, have beneficial effects in the prevention and treatment of osteoporosis and sarcopenia. Future studies are needed in order to design treatment guidelines for patients with osteosarcopenia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Quantification of muscle mass is important in clinical practice and several tools are used for its measurement. This is a review and critical appraisal of the muscle mass assessment tools for use with elderly patients in clinical practice. Of the 10 different tools described to measure skeletal muscle mass (SMM), computerized tomography (CT), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are considered the gold standards. Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) is probably the best known method for measuring muscle mass in the elderly but because of the high cost of the equipment and its operation, its use may be limited. Bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) could provide a simpler, less expensive alternative, and it is portable. The use of anthropometrics (such as calf circumference and skin-fold thickness measurement) is feasible in the home setting. There is a lack of studies of the reliability of tools for measuring muscle mass in elderly patients. Additional research is needed to investigate how best to optimize measurement and minimize error. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sarcopenia is a major health condition associated with aging, defined as loss of muscle mass and function. Its etiology is still poorly understood. Effective treatment options in the management of men and women with sarcopenia are focused on increasing activity (exercise) and providing adequate nutrition, but all options are under investigation. This is a review of current knowledge on the definition, etiology and consequences of sarcopenia, and effective intervention to help people with this condition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]