The prognostic role of sarcopenia and muscle wasting in adult osteosarcoma patients: A longitudinal CT morphometric analysis.

BACKGROUND

Sarcopenia is a known negative prognostic factor in oncology, yet its role in osteosarcoma remains unclear. This study evaluated CT-based body composition changes and their association with survival and functional outcomes in adult osteosarcoma patients undergoing chemotherapy and surgery.

METHODS

We retrospectively analyzed 36 patients (mean age 44.2 ± 19.0 years) with histologically confirmed, non-metastatic osteosarcoma (TNM N0M0) and at least two CT scans. Skeletal Muscle Index (SMI), Paraspinal Muscle Index (PSMI), Psoas Muscle Index (PMI), Skeletal Muscle Density (SMD), and Visceral Adipose Tissue (VAT) were measured at the L3 level. Patients were stratified by baseline sarcopenia (using established SMI cut-offs) and by ≥ 25 % vs. <25 % SMI loss. Survival was assessed using Kaplan-Meier curves and Cox regression adjusted for age, sex, ECOG, tumor necrosis, margin, and tumor size.

RESULTS

All CT-morphometric parameters declined significantly over time (p < 0.01). Baseline sarcopenia predicted poorer survival (HR 1.30, p = 0.014). A ≥25 % SMI reduction was associated with significantly worse survival (HR 1.70, p = 0.014) and poorer functional status (higher ECOG, p < 0.01). Patients with high tumor activity (elevated LDH, CRP, AP) experienced greater muscle and fat loss (p < 0.01).

CONCLUSION

Baseline sarcopenia and progressive SMI loss are independent predictors of poor survival in osteosarcoma patients. Severe muscle loss is also linked to functional decline. Routine CT-based body composition assessment may enhance risk stratification and guide supportive care strategies.