The Relationship Between Sarcopenia and Clinical Outcomes in Elderly Patients Hospitalized for Infectious Diseases: A Comprehensive Literature Review

Abstract

Introduction: Sarcopenia in elderly hospitalized patients with infectious diseases is associated with important clinical and functional consequences, including loss of muscle mass and strength, reduced functional mobility, decreased independence, and increased in-hospital mortality. These changes result from the interaction between systemic inflammatory response, prolonged immobilization, and clinical severity, requiring an interdisciplinary approach integrating physical therapy, medicine, and multiprofessional strategies aimed at preserving functionality. Objective:  The relationship between sarcopenia and clinical outcomes in elderly patients hospitalised for infectious diseases has been described, with an emphasis on the role of physiotherapy within a multidisciplinary approach to preventing functional decline and improving hospital outcomes. Methods:  This is a descriptive and analytical literature review, conducted through an integrative review of the literature. The following databases were used: the Virtual Health Library (VHL), Latin American and Caribbean Health Sciences Literature (LILACS), the National Library of Medicine (PubMed) and SciVerse Scopus (Scopus). Fourteen studies published between 2015 and 2023 were included, selected on the basis of their relevance to the association between sarcopenia, hospitalisation and clinical outcomes, as well as physiotherapy interventions and a multidisciplinary approach. Results: The analyzed evidence indicates that sarcopenia is associated with worse clinical outcomes, including longer hospital stay, increased infectious complications, delirium, frailty, and mortality. Physical therapy interventions, such as early mobilization, progressive therapeutic exercises, muscle strengthening, and functional rehabilitation, combined with continuous medical monitoring, show a positive impact on functional preservation and reduction of functional decline. Multidisciplinary integration proved essential for safety, effectiveness, and improved clinical outcomes. Conclusion: Sarcopenia in elderly hospitalized patients with infectious diseases represents a major determinant of adverse clinical outcomes. Integrated care between physical therapy and medicine within a multidisciplinary model is essential for early identification, prevention of functional decline, and improved recovery, directly impacting complication reduction and overall quality of hospital care.