205 Hand grip strength and DXA in adults with cystic fibrosis

Objectives We have previously shown that hand grip strength (HGS) in 245 adult CF patients was significantly reduced compared to healthy reference values, declined with worsening clinical status, and may be a better indicator of nutritional status than body mass index (BMI) [1]. We extended this work to determine if reduced HGS was associated with lower bone mineral density (assessed by DXA Z scores) and lower fat-free mass (FFM). Methods 103 whole body DXA's and 172 DXA Z scores were performed within 6 months of HGS measurements taken using a standardised protocol. We grouped results into those with HGS 85% predicted (high HGS group). Results This cohort had 81 males and 91 females with mean values for age 28.5 years, BMI 22.4 kg/m 2 and FEV 1 % predicted of 62.8%. Z scores in males within the low and high HGS groups were measured as –1.7 vs –1.1 (spine), –1.3 vs –0.5* (hip), and –1.4 vs –0.6* (neck of femur; NOF). Z scores in females within the low and high HGS groups were measured at –1.0 vs –0.4* (spine), –0.9 vs –0.2 (hip), and –1.0 vs –0.4* (NOF). *Denotes p value of Conclusion HGS was significantly reduced in those with lower DXA Z scores but BMI was not. HGS is more closely correlated with DXA than BMI and may be a useful additional test to assess nutritional status and disease severity in CF.