Interobserver variability in validated screening tests for probable sarcopenia by internal medicine residents of the CMDLT.

Abstract

Sarcopenia is a disease defined by low muscle strength as the main determinant, above the decrease in muscle mass and not necessarily associated with aging. The most used diagnostic algorithm is the EWGSOP 2 since it allows detecting patients with probable sarcopenia using two validated and reliable tests, with a sensitivity of 93% and specificity of 100%. In Venezuela, no previous data was found on the interobserver variability of the Chair Test and the palmar pressure test, therefore, in this study, 18 patients who attended the Community Medicine Service of the medical center were randomly taken into account. in Caracas, Venezuela. Interobserver variability was evaluated in 3 residents of the Internal Medicine program, all trained on more than 3 occasions, with an external observer to evaluate compliance with each phase. A statistical analysis was carried out for qualitative and quantitative variables, obtaining a good level of agreement in the former, with a kappa fleiss of 0.66, 95% CI with P: <0.005. However, a high technical measurement error, being 13% for the palmar pressure force and 9.8% for the chair test.