Purpose of review: This review provides a comprehensive update on the definition, assessment, epidemiology, pathophysiology, clinical implications, and therapeutic approach of sarcopenic obesity (SO) and highlights the challenges, limitations, and knowledge gaps in SO research.
Recent findings: The confluence of a rapidly aging population with rising obesity rates has led to the phenotype of SO, defined as the concurrent presence of sarcopenia and obesity. Despite efforts, a standardized definition of SO is still lacking. Its prevalence varies widely between studies, depending on population characteristics and different definitions. The major pathogenetic mechanisms include age-related changes in body composition and hormonal milieu, positive energy balance, pro-inflammatory pathways, and insulin resistance. Lifestyle interventions, including caloric restriction and physical activity, are the cornerstones of SO treatment. SO is a multifaceted syndrome with serious clinical implications. The development and implementation of effective prevention and treatment strategies is a top priority based on its dramatically increasing health impact.
Keywords: Aging; Body composition; Obesity; Sarcopenia; Sarcopenic obesity; Skeletal muscle tissue.