Evaluation of sarcopenia parameters in primary immunodeficiency patients

Introduction and Objective:Primary Immunodeficiencies (PIDs) are multisystemic diseases that impair the development and function of the immune system, leading to increased frequency and severity of infections. Additionally, they are often accompanied by autoimmune, autoinflammatory conditions, and malignancies. Although sarcopenia is commonly considered a disease of the geriatric population, various studies have demonstrated an increased prevalence of sarcopenia in numerous chronic diseases, and several mechanisms underlying its pathogenesis have been identified. This study aims to evaluate sarcopenia parameters in patients with PID and investigate the prevalence of sarcopenia in this population. Materials and Methods:Nineteen patients diagnosed with PID and 38 healthy volunteers were included in the study. Anthropometric measurements, handgrip strength using a dynamometer, the SARC-F questionnaire, Bioelectrical Impedance Analysis (BIA), and the Timed-Up and Go (TUG) test were performed. Results:The mean age was 45.74 ± 13.87 years in the PID group and 45.34 ± 13.15 years in the control group. The SARC-F score indicated a statistically significant higher probability of sarcopenia in the PID group compared to the control group (p<0.001). Sarcopenia was detected in 2 (10.53%) cases in the PID group and in 1 (2.63%) case in the control group. Although skeletal muscle mass, handgrip strength, and lean body mass values were lower in the PID group compared to the control group, and the TUG test results were higher in the PID group, the differences were not statistically significant. Correlation analysis revealed a positive correlation between skeletal muscle quality and albumin and creatinine levels, while a negative correlation was observed with sedimentation rate and TUG test results. Conclusion:The findings suggest that sarcopenia may develop at an earlier-than-expected age in patients with PID. Keywords: Primary Immunodeficiency, Sarcopenia, Inflammation