Reason of progressive loss of function and frailty in elderly: Sarcopenia [Yaşlilarda progresi·f yeti· kaybi ve kirilganlik nedeni·: Sarkopeni·]

Sarcopenia is a multi-factorial and complex condition that can be defined as loss of mass, strength, quality, and function in muscles associated with age. While there are still research studies in progress, the primary cause of sarcopenia has not yet been defined. To diagnose sarcopenia, muscle mass, muscle strength, and physical performance should be estimated. However, the lack of diagnostic criteria to identify patients with sarcopenia hinders potential management options. With advances in molecular physiology, potential medicines that can make changes in skeletal muscles are currently being defined. Unfortunately, the molecules in the literature are not of the type that meet our expectations yet, due to their side effects and the lack of evidence, as there is insufficient data on the mechanism, efficacy, and safety of pharmacologic treatments. Resistive exercises and nutritional support prophylaxes are useful in the treatment of sarcopenia; therefore, health professionals have much work to do to plan personal, or when necessary, community- or home-based, exercise programs. Considered one of the geriatric symptoms, sarcopenia is important for both its health and economic consequences. Therefore, in order to bring attention to the diagnosis and treatment of sarcopenia in clinical practice, we deal with its different aspects in this review