The polymorbid continuum of cerebral atherosclerosis and sarcopenia as a risk factor for cerebral infarction
https://doi.org/10.30629/2658-7947-2026-31-2-29-36
Abstract
Introduction. For decades, strokes have been a significant cause of disability and mortality in older populations worldwide. Characteristic features of this category of patients are the high prevalence of atherosclerosis of the brachiocephalic arteries, changes in the hormonal profile, progressive decrease in muscle tissue and increase in adipose tissue.
Objective of the Study. To study the frequency of occurrence of high-risk signs of atherosclerosis-associated cerebrovascular complications in the comorbid course of carotid artery atherosclerosis and sarcopenia.
Material and Methods. Two groups of patients over 55 years of age were examined (198 individuals with normal muscle mass and 69 with sarcopenia). The following assessments were performed: total cholesterol levels, ultrasound of brachiocephalic arteries, calculation of 10-year stroke risk (Framingham Risk Score), and 10-year mortality risk (SCORE scale). Group comparison was conducted using non-parametric statistical methods.
Results. Patients with sarcopenia showed a statistically significant higher incidence of carotid atherosclerosis and unstable atherosclerotic plaques. The Framingham and SCORE scores are insensitive to identifying high vascular risk in patients with comorbid atherosclerosis and sarcopenia.
Conclusion. Loss of muscle mass is associated with a higher incidence of multifocal atherosclerosis of the carotid arteries with signs of atherosclerotic plaque instability.
About the Authors
M. A. Miloserdov
Smolensk State Medical University; Clinical Emergency Hospital
Russian Federation
Russian Federation
Smolensk
N. N. Maslova
Smolensk State Medical University
Russian Federation
Russian Federation
Smolensk
A. S. Erokhina
Clinical Emergency Hospital
Russian Federation
Russian Federation
Smolensk
M. V. Stolyarova
Clinical Emergency Hospital
Russian Federation
Russian Federation
Smolensk
V. S. Nikitin
Smolensk State Medical University
Russian Federation
Russian Federation
Smolensk
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For citations:
Miloserdov M.A., Maslova N.N., Erokhina A.S., Stolyarova M.V., Nikitin V.S. The polymorbid continuum of cerebral atherosclerosis and sarcopenia as a risk factor for cerebral infarction. Russian neurological journal. 2026;31(2):29-36. (In Russ.) https://doi.org/10.30629/2658-7947-2026-31-2-29-36
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