Low hand grip strength is associated with worse functional capacity and higher inflammation in people receiving maintenance hemodialysis

Objectives: To evaluate the associations of hand grip strength (HGS) with body composition, functional capacity, muscle quality, and inflammatory markers in people receiving maintenance hemodialysis. Methods: This is a cross-sectional study in people receiving maintenance hemodialysis. HGS was measured by hydraulic dynamometer on the upper limb without fistula. Participants were stratified into low or adequate HGS, based on population-specific cutoff points. Body composition was assessed by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry, and functional capacity by the Short Physical Performance Battery and timed up-and-go tests. In addition, serum creatinine, interleukin-6 (IL-6), IL-10, tumor necrosis factor-a, and ultra-sensitive Creactive protein (us-CRP) were measured before the dialysis session. Results: A total of 67 participants (41.8% women, 58.2% male; ages 54.1 +/- 11.7 y) were included. Those with low HGS had worse functional capacity than those with adequate HGS (timed up-and-go test, 10.7 +/- 1.0 versus 8.5 +/- 0.8 sec, respectively; P < 0.001). IL-6 and us-CRP were higher in those with low HGS than their counterparts (IL-6: 2.7 +/- 0.3 versus 1.9 pg/mL, P = 0.03; us-CRP: 14.8 +/- 3.0 versus 4.7 +/- 1.9 mg/L, P = 0.03). Multiple linear regression analysis showed that appendicular lean mass, us-CRP, age, sex, and seven-point subjective global assessment score were associated with HGS. Conclusions: Participants with low HGS showed higher inflammation and lower functional capacity. In addition to muscle mass, inflammation and nutritional status also affect HGS.<END ABSTRACT> (C) 2021 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.