Abstract: Objective: To investigate the prevalence of sarcopenia among liver transplant (LT) recipients and identify its associated factors, thereby providing evidence for developing postoperative rehabilitation strategies.
Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted using convenience sampling among LT recipients attending the outpatient clinic of Beijing You'an Hospital from April to October 2025. Sarcopenia was diagnosed based on muscle mass, muscle strength, and physical performance. Data were collected using a general information questionnaire, the short form international physical activity questionnaire, the nutrition risk screening 2002, and the perceived social support scale. Univariate analysis and logistic regression were employed to determine the influencing factors of sarcopenia.
Results: A total of 128 participants were included, and the prevalence of sarcopenia was 17.2%. The univariate analysis revealed no significant differences between the two groups in terms of age, gender, BMI, albumin, or levels of social support (all P<0.05). Multivariate analysis indicated that sex, age, body mass index, serum albumin level, and perceived social support were independently associated with sarcopenia in LT recipients.
Conclusions: Sarcopenia is relatively common after liver transplantation and is influenced by multiple dimensions, including biological characteristics, nutritional status, and social support. Enhanced monitoring should be implemented during postoperative follow-up, with special attention paid to high-risk groups including female patients, elderly individuals, and those with low albumin levels. Comprehensive interventions should be carried out from aspects such as nutritional support, physical activity management, and psychosocial support to reduce the incidence of sarcopenia and promote postoperative rehabilitation.

Key words: Liver transplantation, Sarcopenia, Factors analysis