Evaluation of malnutrition status and associated clinical indicators in Chinese patients with autoimmune rheumatic diseases: A cross-sectional study.

BACKGROUND

We aimed to investigate the prevalence and impact of malnutrition in Chinese patients with autoimmune rheumatic diseases (ARDs) and to explore the associated risk factors.

METHODS

This study evaluated the nutrition status of 205 Chinese patients with ARDs. Participants' characteristics, nutrition measurements, activities of daily living (ADL), and clinical outcomes were collected. Body composition was measured by bioelectrical impedance analysis. Malnutrition was defined according to Global Leadership Initiative on Malnutrition criteria.

RESULTS

In the study, 29.8% of the 205 patients with ARDs were diagnosed with malnutrition. Patients with malnutrition exhibited lower body mass index, fat-free mass index, and fat mass index as well as decreased levels of serum albumin, prealbumin, and 25-hydroxyvitamin D. High use of glucocorticoids (odds ratio [OR] = 4.65; 95% CI, 1.383-15.650; P = 0.013) and dysphagia (OR = 15.750; 95% CI, 1.504-164.905; P = 0.021) were independent risk factors of malnutrition in patients with ARDs. The patients with ARDs and malnutrition exhibited prolonged hospitalization, increased hospital costs declined ADL, and a higher 6-month rehospitalization rate. Furthermore, in female patients, malnutrition (OR = 2.210; 95% CI, 1.078-4.531; P = 0.030) increased the risk of 6-month rehospitalization rather than male patients.

CONCLUSION

Malnutrition was associated with poor ADL and clinical outcomes. High use of glucocorticoids and dysphagia were independent risk factors of malnutrition in Chinese patients with ARDs.