Muscular Atrophy in Cardiovascular Disease.

Currently, the number of chronic diseases has increased due to increasing in life expectancy of population. Among them, cardiovascular diseases (CVD) are the most prevalent and responsible for the high mortality and morbidity rates. Patients with CVD have metabolic, hemodynamic, and musculoskeletal changes. There is a debate regarding the correct term for musculoskeletal changes that affect this group of patients; therefore, we found in literature myopia, muscular atrophy, cardiac cachexia, and sarcopenia. However, although there is no standardization in relation to correct term, these musculoskeletal consequences directly affect the quality of life and are associated with a poor prognosis. In this way, the importance of prevention of muscular atrophy, but also of treatment for those patients with progressive muscle decline, is proven. We also emphasize the importance of a multi-professional team, because therapeutic strategies are needed that are capable of delaying the onset or minimizing the consequences of skeletal muscle loss, from pharmacological management and nutrition to physical exercise.