The infographic from ESPEN (European Society for Clinical Nutrition and Metabolism) explains the Global Leadership Initiative on Malnutrition (GLIM) criteria for diagnosing malnutrition in adults, focusing specifically on the assessment of muscle mass. It outlines that a diagnosis of malnutrition requires the identification of at least one phenotypic criterion, such as low muscle mass, and one etiologic criterion, such as inflammation.

The infographic presents a step-by-step process for evaluating muscle mass, highlighting the availability of different assessment techniques like bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA), dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (DXA), computed tomography (CT), and ultrasound. It also includes examples of thresholds for reduced muscle mass or its surrogate markers, based on measurements like calf circumference and appendicular lean mass (ALM). If low muscle mass is identified, a comprehensive nutritional assessment and evaluation of muscle strength and function are suggested.

The diagram offers guidance for healthcare professionals on muscle mass assessment and monitoring, depending on the available tools and expertise.