Positive association of the thigh muscle thickness to intracellular-water ratio with handgrip strength, but not with the risk of mortality in hospitalized cancer patients: a longitudinal study

This study explored the relationship between handgrip strength, muscle thickness, and the intracellular water ratio (MT/ICW) in cancer patients. It aimed to identify a cut-off point for the MT/ICW ratio that might influence survival. Conducted as an exploratory, longitudinal study in a public hospital, it included patients from 2018 to 2022, with follow-up until August 31, 2023. The cut-off for the MT/ICW ratio was determined based on its sensitivity for mortality. Results indicated that patients with an MT/ICW ratio >0.97 had significantly lower extracellular water percentages and greater muscle thickness. A positive association was found between the MT/ICW ratio and handgrip strength, even after adjusting for age, sex, extracellular water, and body mass index. However, patients with an MT/ICW ratio ≤0.97 showed no significant mortality risk. In conclusion, MT/ICW ratio >0.97 mm/L in hospitalized cancer patients was positively associated with handgrip strength, but not risk of mortality.