Should We Consider Sarcopenia in Pediatric Patients with Chronic Kidney Disease? A Preliminary Cross-sectional Analysis

Abstract

Objective We investigated sarcopenia and its traits in children and adolescents with chronic kidney disease. Methods Physical function was assessed using handgrip strength (HGS) and the 60-second sit-to-stand (STS-60). Body composition was assessed by bioelectrical impedance and anthropometry through mid-upper arm circumference (MUAC). Probable sarcopenia was considered as low HGS, whereas sarcopenia by adding low MUAC. Results Twenty-two patients were evaluated (11 ± 4 years and 59% boys). Sarcopenia prevalence was 50%. Low physical function by HGS and STS-60 was 59% and 100%, respectively, while low MUAC in 77%. HGS was positively associated with all body composition variables in the non-dialysis and peritoneal dialysis groups; on the other hand, the STS-60 was not significantly associated with any of the body composition variables. Conclusion Among pediatric patients with CKD, the prevalence of sarcopenia was high. Therefore, strategic interventions to body composition will likely confer positive benefits on HGS, but not on STS-60.