THE IMPACT OF MUSCLE MASS LOSS IN ELDERLY PATIENTS WITH TYPE 2 DIABETES MELLITUS IN AN INTENSIVE CARE UNIT: A LITERATURE REVIEW

Abstract

Introduction: Sarcopenia is a progressive and widespread alteration of skeletal muscles associated with aging. The occurrence of this disease is related to the development of disability and dependence, which results in a reduction in the quality of life of affected individuals. Patients under intensive care have a depletion of 1% of daily lean mass, thus requiring specialized nutritional therapies, especially those with comorbidities such as diabetes mellitus, which is a risk factor for elderly patients and who are admitted to an intensive care unit. Objective: To understand the impact of decreased muscle mass in elderly patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM2) admitted to an Intensive Care Unit (ICU). Methodology: A narrative review was carried out based on research of articles from the last 10 years in the SciELO, PubMed and BVS databases, in Portuguese and English, using the descriptors: "Sarcopenia", "Elderly", "Diabetes Mellitus" AND "Intensive Care Units". Results and discussion: Sarcopenia, characterized by progressive loss of muscle mass and strength, is prevalent in elderly individuals, aggravated by T2DM and prolonged ICU stays. During hospitalization, the combination of insulin resistance, systemic inflammation, and immobility intensifies muscle atrophy, generating complications that compromise recovery and increase morbidity and mortality. Final considerations: The development of effective management strategies together with specific nutritional interventions and early mobilization are necessary for a better clinical outcome. Therefore, a multidisciplinary approach is needed in the management of sarcopenia in elderly patients with T2DM admitted to the ICU.