Last update:
18-Nov-2020

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.

Key words: Prevention, Osteoporosis, Osteosarcopenia, Sarcopenia, Treatment.