Respiratory sarcopenia: current status of assessment and intervention strategies

Respiratory sarcopenia is a syndrome characterized by decreased mass and impaired function in respiratory muscles. This condition not only contributes to pulmonary dysfunction but may also lead to a series of adverse consequences, such as reduced exercise tolerance and limitations in daily activities, severely affecting patients' quality of life. Respiratory sarcopenia arises from multiple factors, including aging, physical inactivity, malnutrition, underlying diseases, and cachexia. Notably, although significant progress has been made in sarcopenia research, most existing studies have predominantly focused on the limb skeletal muscle system. Respiratory muscles are often overlooked in clinical practice owing to their unique anatomical and physiological characteristics and the particularity of assessment methods. In recent years, with the advancement of sarcopenia research, the role of respiratory muscles has gained increasing attention in the clinical and scientific communities. Based on the latest research developments at home and abroad, we systematically review the definition, conceptual evolution, assessment methods, pathogenesis, and intervention strategies for respiratory sarcopenia, and also discuss current research controversies and future directions, aiming to provide theoretical basis and practical guidance for clinical diagnosis, treatment, and scientific research of this disease.