Low hand grip strength is associated with worse functional capacity and higher inflammation in people receiving maintenance hemodialysis

Objectives: To evaluate the associations of hand grip strength (HGS) with body composition, functional capacity, muscle quality, and inflammatory markers in people receiving maintenance hemodialysis. Methods: This is a cross-sectional study in people receiving maintenance hemodialysis. HGS was measured by hydraulic dynamometer on the upper limb without fistula. Participants were stratified into low or adequate HGS, based on population-specific cutoff points. Body composition was assessed by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry, and functional capacity by the Short Physical Performance Battery and timed up-and-go tests. In addition, serum creatinine, interleukin-6 (IL-6), IL-10, tumor necrosis factor-a, and ultra-sensitive Creactive protein (us-CRP) were measured before the dialysis session. Results: A total of 67 participants (41.8% women, 58.2% male; ages 54.1 +/- 11.7 y) were included. Those with low HGS had worse functional capacity than those with adequate HGS (timed up-and-go test, 10.7 +/- 1.0 versus 8.5 +/- 0.8 sec, respectively; P < 0.001). IL-6 and us-CRP were higher in those with low HGS than their counterparts (IL-6: 2.7 +/- 0.3 versus 1.9 pg/mL, P = 0.03; us-CRP: 14.8 +/- 3.0 versus 4.7 +/- 1.9 mg/L, P = 0.03). Multiple linear regression analysis showed that appendicular lean mass, us-CRP, age, sex, and seven-point subjective global assessment score were associated with HGS. Conclusions: Participants with low HGS showed higher inflammation and lower functional capacity. In addition to muscle mass, inflammation and nutritional status also affect HGS. (C) 2021 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Automated summary

The study evaluated the association of hand grip strength with body composition, functional capacity, muscle quality, and inflammatory markers in people receiving maintenance hemodialysis. Participants with low hand grip strength showed lower functional capacity and higher inflammation markers compared to those with adequate hand grip strength.