Sarcopenic obesity in adults: diagnosis, clinical repercussions, and therapeutic strategies

Abstract

Introduction: Sarcopenic obesity is characterized by the coexistence of excess adiposity and reduced muscle mass and function and is associated with adverse clinical outcomes. Objective: To analyze the scientific evidence on sarcopenic obesity, emphasizing diagnostic criteria, clinical consequences, and therapeutic strategies. Methods: A narrative literature review with a descriptive and qualitative approach was proposed, based on studies published in scientific journals and consensus documents on the subject. Publications addressing diagnosis, health outcomes, nutritional interventions, physical exercise, and emerging therapeutic approaches were considered. Results: The studies analyzed showed associations between sarcopenic obesity and adverse outcomes, including cognitive impairment, cardiovascular disease, functional limitations, and increased mortality risk. Heterogeneity in diagnostic criteria and body composition assessment methods was also observed, making prevalence estimates difficult to compare. Interventions combining nutritional strategies and physical exercise showed favorable results for some measures of muscle mass and strength, although the certainty of the evidence varied. Conclusion: Sarcopenic obesity is a clinical challenge that requires an integrated assessment of body composition and muscle function. Timely diagnosis and individualized management are essential; however, further studies using standardized criteria and longitudinal follow-up are needed to establish more effective and safer therapeutic strategies.