Sarcopenia in patients with malignant pleural effusion: impact on symptoms, health status, and response to hospitalization

Abstract

Background: Malignant pleural effusion (MPE) refers to the presence of neoplastic cells in the pleural fluid and was previously associated with lung cancer, breast cancer, and lymphoma. Patients with MPE effusion have significant symptoms, diminishing their overall quality of life but little is known about the influence sarcopenia may have on their clinical presentation. Purpose: To examine the prevalence of sarcopenia in patients with MPE and its relationship with symptoms, health status, and the response to hospitalization. Methods: Seventy-four patients with MPE underwent measurements of symptoms, health-related quality of life, and functional status upon admission, discharge, and 3 months after hospital discharge. Results: Patients with MPE and sarcopenia were symptomatic during hospitalization and at discharge. Additionally, health-related quality of life and functional status were worse in patients with MPE and sarcopenia. All measures of patients with MPE and sarcopenia were significantly poorer 3 months after hospital discharge. Conclusions: Sarcopenia is a clinical characteristic with substantial negative effects in patients with MPE. Specific interventions may need to be provided, designed, and offered in the clinical setting.