Relationship between Energy Intake and Changes in Thigh Echo Intensity during the Acute Phase of Stroke in Older Patients with Hemiplegia

Abstract

Highlights of the Study• A decrease in skeletal muscle quality is defined as an increase in intramuscular adipose tissues, whichshows as an increase in thigh echo intensity (TEI). • The rate of change in TEI at 4 weeks after admission was −0.9% to +6.7%. • Higher energy intake was associated with a smaller increase in the rate of change in TEI on the nonparalyzed side.

Association of medial gastrocnemius adiposity with poststroke severe malnutrition and functional performance of activities of daily living in older patients: A prospective analysis

“…8 Inadequate energy intake has recently been found to decrease quadricep thickness and increase intramuscular adipose tissue content in patients after a stroke. 7,34 Inadequate energy intake causes a decrease in muscle mass 35 and results in malnutrition. 10 During this study, patients with severe malnutrition had lower energy intake than other patients.…”

“…Increased intramuscular adipose tissue is caused by aging, obesity, disease, trauma, and inactivity 8 . Inadequate energy intake has recently been found to decrease quadricep thickness and increase intramuscular adipose tissue content in patients after a stroke 7,34 . Inadequate energy intake causes a decrease in muscle mass 35 and results in malnutrition 10 .…”

“…6 Furthermore, in patients who have experienced a stroke, increased quadricep intramuscular adipose tissue content is a predictor of poor ability to perform ADLs. 5 A recent study showed that adequate energy intake 7 or exercise interventions 8 may effectively reduce the proportion of intramuscular adipose tissue. Therefore, early assessments of intramuscular adipose tissue and nutrition status of patients who have experienced a stroke may help predict and improve the prognosis.…”