·       For Screening:

Use the SARC-F questionnaire (5-item questionnaire including Strength, Assistance in walking, Rising from a chair, Climbing stairs, and Falls) in combination with calf circumference (CC) or mid-arm muscle circumference (MAMC)and hand-grip strength or gait speed.

·       For Diagnosis:

CT scan remains the gold standard for diagnosing sarcopenia, especially in patients undergoing imaging for other conditions.

However, Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA), and Bioelectrical Impedance Analysis (BIA) can be cautiously used as alternatives, depending on local availability and expertise.

·       For Monitoring:

Newer technologies such as high-density electromyography (HD-EMG) and microwave imaging show promise for monitoring both muscle mass and quality. These non-invasive tools offer reliable information about the muscle characteristics. However, needs validation.

Source: Ackermans LL, Rabou J, Basrai M, et al. Screening, diagnosis, and monitoring of sarcopenia: When to use which tool? Clinical Nutrition ESPEN. 2022;48:36-44. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.clnesp.2022.01.027