Sarcopenia in patients with pancreatic cancer, an independant prognostic factor

Background Pancreatic cancer is despite modern diagnostic tools and treatment regimen associated with poor outcome. Many patients show cachexia and sarcopenia.Methods In a retrospective analysis the SMI (cm(2)/m(2)) was measured by determining the skelettal muscle area in a computed tomography image at lumbar vertebrae 3. Further clinical parameters were measured to determine the outcome.Results The mean survival after diagnosis in the population with sarcopenia was significantly lower (14,4 vs 17,7 months, p=0,046). Significantly shorter survival was also seen for higher age (p=0,006), no tumor resection (p=0,004), metastases (p=0,002) and high CA19-9 level (p=0,002)Conclusion Sarcopenia is an indipendant prognostic factor in patients with pancreatic cancer. SMI should be measured clinical practice and further studies are necessary to asses a potential therapeutic strategy.