Comparative of muscle mass using bioelectrical impedance analysis and computerized tomography in Children with High-Risk Neuroblastoma

Purpose The aim is to examine the clinical significance of bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA)-based assessment of muscle mass in children with high-risk neuroblastoma. Methods We retrospectively collected data for children with high-risk neuroblastoma who completed cycles of induction chemotherapy before surgical resection form November 2023 to November 2024.We calculated the relation between BIA- based assessments and computed tomography (CT)-based assessments of muscle mass. Results A total of 37 children were included in the analysis. SMM_BIA showed a strong positive correlation with SMM_CT in patients (r = 0.763, P < 0.001). The Bland–Altman plot showed a mean ± SD of 1.486 ± 1.958 for SMM_BIA and SMM_CT. The 95% LOA for the mean ranged from − 2.351 to 5.322. LSTM_BIA showed a strong positive correlation with LSTM_CT in patients (r = 0.888, P < 0.001). The Bland–Altman plot showed a mean ± SD of 0.900 ± 1.883 for LSTM_BIA and LSTM_CT. The 95% LOA for the mean ranged from − 2.791 to 4.592. PhA was significantly lower for patients with an ICU length of stay greater than 3 days compared to those with a shorter stay. Conclusion The BIA measurements demonstrated good concordance with CT measurements in monitoring muscle mass in children with high-risk neuroblastoma. Additionally, PhA may serve as a predictor of poor postoperative outcomes in this population.