Table 4.

Complications relative to loss of lean body mass*

Lean body mass (% loss of total)*	Complications (related to lost lean mass)	Associated, mortality, %
10	Impaired immunity, increased infection	10
20	Decreased healing, weakness, infection, thinning of skin	30
30	Too weak to sit, pressure sores develop pneumonia, no healing	50
40	Death, usually from pneumonia	100

*Assuming no preexisting loss.