Association between sarcopenia and liver transplantation waitlist mortality based on hand grip strength test

Abstract Background The systemic and progressive loss of skeletal muscle function, strength, and mass is the hallmark of the syndrome known as sarcopenia. Sarcopenia and malnutrition are linked to higher rates of mortality and morbidity in cirrhotic patients. Hence, we aimed to assess the association between liver transplantation waitlist mortality and sarcopenia based on the hand grip strength test (HGS). Patients and methods This study included 29 consecutive adult patients with end-stage liver disease who were on the waitlist for liver transplantation between September 2022 and September 2023. Subjective global assessment (SGA) was utilized to evaluate the nutritional status of patients. HGS of the dominant hand was assessed via the hydraulic handgrip dynamometer. Results Malnutrition and sarcopenia were found in 86.21% and 99% of our cohort, respectively. HGS was an independent predictor of mortality in liver transplant waitlist cases (OR = 7.8, 95% CI = 2.5–24.5, P ≤ 0.0001). A cut-off HGS value of 22 kg predicted mortality in waitlisted patients with an AUC of 0.900, sensitivity of 96%, and specificity of 93% (95% CI = 0.789–1, P = 0.0005). Conclusion Sarcopenia based on hand grip strength test is a significant predictor of mortality in liver transplant waitlisted patients.