NCT06994689

Clinimetric Properties of Muscle Mass and Stiffness Measurements of the Quadriceps in Patients With COPD

Clinimetric Properties Assessment of Quadriceps Muscle Mass and Stiffness Using Perimetry and ShearWave Elastography in Patients With COPD : a Prospective Observational Study

• Status: Recruiting
• Phase: —
• Study type: Observational
• Enrollment: 30 (estimated)
• Sponsor: Groupe Hospitalier du Havre · Academic / Other
• Sex: All
• Age: 18 Years
• Healthy volunteers: Not accepted

Summary

A large amount of patients with COPD suffer from muscle dysfunction characterized by losses of muscle mass and strength. Studies have shown an association between a loss of quadriceps muscle mass and premature death. This study aims to investigate the clinimetric properties of a simple quadriceps perimetry and ShearWave elastography to improve the monitoring of skeletal muscle function in patients with COPD.

Detailed description

Muscle dysfunction in COPD is characterized by reduced skeletal muscle mass and strength, particularly in the lower limbs. These systemic consequences of COPD play a key role in the course of these patients, through their impact on functional status, quality of life and increased mortality. Early detection and monitoring of muscular status in these patients could help improve management and limit the consequences of the disease. Numerous studies show that variation in quadriceps mass has a significant relationship with premature mortality in this disease. The use of an indirect but simple and affordable measure: perimetric tape-measurement of thigh circumference, could help monitor quadriceps muscle mass in these patients on a regular and cost-effective basis. However, the clinimetric properties (validity, reliability, response to treatment) of this measurement need to be assessed to clarify its relevance. On the other hand, ShearWave ® elastography (SWE) is a new method of measuring quadriceps stiffness. This measurement could provide additional information on muscle quality compared with conventional measures of strength or muscle trophicity. The potential added value of SWE ® for COPD patients has not yet been investigated. This tool would provide more precise indications of the state of the quadriceps, with the aim of improving the management of this pathology.

Conditions

• COPD
• Quadriceps Muscle Atrophy

Interventions

Type	Name	Description
DIAGNOSTIC_TEST	Perimetry and ShearWave measurement of the quadriceps muscle before and after a pulmonary rehabilitation (PR) programme	Patients will undergo a pulmonary rehabilitation (PR) programme. On day 1, perimetry and ShearWave measurements of the quadriceps muscle will be provided. Supplementary assessments of quadriceps thickness, quadriceps strength with a handheld dynamometry, lean body mass (bioelectrical impedance), constant work-rate endurance test and HAD questionnaire will also be provided on day 1. The same measurements and questionnaire will be provided on the last day of the patient in the PR programme.

Timeline

• Start date: 2025-05-30
• Primary completion: 2026-10-01
• Completion: 2026-12-01
• First posted: 2025-05-29
• Last updated: 2026-01-21

Locations

1 site across 1 country: France