Sarcopenia in Cirrhosis and Chronic Inflammatory Bowel Disease: An Austrian Biobanking Study

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are conducting a biobanking study in Austria to better understand sarcopenia, a condition marked by progressive loss of muscle mass, strength, and quality, especially common in older adults and patients with liver cirrhosis or chronic inflammatory bowel disease. The study aims to collect standardized clinical and biochemical data along with biosamples to explore new biomarkers and advanced clinical assessments. This nationwide effort hopes to expand to all tertiary liver care centers in Austria to enhance research capabilities. Participants will be categorized based on whether they meet the European Working Group on Sarcopenia in Older People (EWGSOP) criteria for sarcopenia or not. The study involves collecting routine clinical data, biochemical tests, and imaging scans like CT or MRI performed as part of standard care within two months of the study visit. The data and samples will be used to build a detailed registry and biobank for sarcopenia research. During the study, participants undergo assessments including muscle strength and function tests, imaging reviews, and biosample collection. Researchers will create an Austrian-wide sarcopenia register at enrollment and analyze clinical, biochemical, and imaging data. There is no investigational treatment given; instead, the focus is on collecting comprehensive information to improve diagnosis and understanding. Participation involves consenting adults who have recent imaging as part of their care and excludes those with severe cognitive impairment or advanced liver cancer. The study is expected to continue through 2035.

Austrian Biobanking Study for Sarcopenia