Use of handgrip strength in the assessment of the muscle function of chronic kidney disease patients on dialysis: a systematic review

Background. Even though handgrip strength (HGS) is considered a simple and reliable method to evaluate muscle function and, indirectly, the nutritional status in clinical settings, there is still no consensus concerning its use in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) undergoing dialysis. This study presents a systematic review of the literature on the use of HGS as a parameter for nutritional assessment and a prognostic marker in patients on dialysis. Methods. The MEDLINE database (1966 to October 2009) was consulted for this systematic review by using the search terms hand strength or muscle strength dynamometer and dialysis. Eighteen articles were identified and included in the analysis. Results. Similar to the general population, HGS values were associated with age and gender. The analysed studies showed correlation between muscle function estimated by HGS and variables used in the assessment of muscle mass and nutritional status, as well as the prediction of clinical complications. Conclusions. The analysis indicates that HGS is a useful tool for continuous and systematic assessment of muscle mass related to nutritional status in patients on dialysis.However, it is still necessary to standardize the techniques used for HGS, especially with respect to the position of measurement, the evaluation period, the choice of arm side and the diagnostic criterion.