OP0285 PARE SARCOPENIA IN PATIENTS WITH RHEUMATIC DISEASES

Abstract

Background: Sarcopenia is a rather new term, coined in 1989: only in 2016 the International Classification of Disease (ICD) code was established for this disease. Sarcopenia describes a state of reduced muscle mass together with reduced muscle strength and reduced muscle performance that comes with aging. The topic is of great relevance for people with rheumatic diseases, because chronic inflammations and lack of exercise, among others, have been identified as risk factors for the development of sarcopenia. To shed additional light on this emerging field, the German Rheumatism League has funded a participatory research project for the investigation of sarcopenia. Objectives: The aim of the study was to investigate the prevalence of sarcopenia in patients with rheumatoid arthritis. In addition, the study aimed at identifying risk factors and biomarkers for the development/diagnosis of sarcopenia. The results of the study are intended to enhance the diagnostic tools for recognising sarcope-nia in patients with rheumatoid arthritis and to allow the formulation of specific exercise recommendations for the prevention of sarcopenia. Based on the results of the study and additional information from the literature, an information leaflet or brochure for patients will be prepared. Methods: Participants were screened by medical questionnaires. Blood chemistry was analysed. Body composition was assessed by dual-energy X-ray absorpti-ometry (DXA). Muscle area and muscle density were measured using peripheral quantitative computed tomography (pQCT). Various neuromuscular tests were performed to assess muscle performance, muscle strength and sense of balance. Additional information on treatment options, prevention and detection were retrieved in a comprehensive literature search. Two “Patient Research Partners” are involved in the study. Results: The study has not yet been completed. So far, 269 patients (age 18 and older; 216 female, 53 male) were recruited until December 2018. Mean age of participants was 59 years, mean DAS-28 was 2.4 (remission). The control group consisted of an existing cohort of 280 individuals without chronic inflammatory diseases or muscle paralysis (153 females, 127 males, mean age 63 years). Preliminary data show that prevalence of sarcopenia is higher in patients with rheumatoid arthritis compared to the control group. Literature revealed that physical exercise has a positive effect on sarcopenia. In addition, amino acid supplementation, nutritional interventions and hormones might be effective in the treatment of sarcopenia. Conclusion: The higher prevalence of sarcopenia in patients with rheumatoid arthritis illustrates the urgent need to provide education on sarcopenia for patients with rheumatic diseases.