Sarcopenia in Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Pathogenesis and Management

Abstract

Background: Sarcopenia is almost constantly observed in patients with cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).

Summary: Chronic liver disease represents a unique pathophysiological scenario in which sarcopenia develops and all factors involved in the pathogenesis should be taken into account for an appropriate management of the disease. No properly designed intervention studies on this topic are available and, thus, no effective strategies have been developed for clinical practice. Apart from any targeted intervention, treatment, and optimization of liver disease is crucial.

Key messages: In patients with cirrhosis and HCC, nutritional support to maintain and restore nutrition status, a targeted use of branched-chain amino acids and a guided physical exercise, should all be an integral part of the multidimensional assessment and tailored interventions.

Keywords: Branched-chain amino acids; Hepatocellular carcinoma; Muscle mass; Nutrition; Sarcopenia.