Diabetes and weak grip strength in patients awaiting liver transplant
In 119 cirrhotic patients on a transplant waiting list, those with diabetes had higher odds of reduced handgrip strength, even though their calorie intake matched that of patients without diabetes.
Diabetes and muscle weakness are both common in advanced cirrhosis, yet their combined impact in liver transplant candidates had not been examined. This single-centre observational study assessed 119 patients on a transplant waiting list, using handgrip strength as the measure of muscle function.
Diabetes was present in 61.3% of the cohort, and 39.9% had probable sarcopenia. Reduced grip strength was found in 49.3% of patients with diabetes versus 30.4% of those without. In regression analysis, diabetes predicted weak grip (OR 2.72, 95% CI 1.15-6.43), independent of age. Total daily energy intake was similar between groups, but patients with diabetes took in a higher share of their calories as protein.
Because the design is observational and from one centre, the results show an association, not causation. The authors suggest insulin resistance and systemic inflammation as possible explanations, but the study did not establish these mechanisms.
Summary prepared with AI assistance from the published abstract and reviewed by a physician. Not medical advice. Learn more
