1. Clinical Assessment

A targeted history and structured strength testing form the foundation for diagnosing ICU-AW.

History and Risk Factors

• Pre-existing neuromuscular disease
• Duration of critical illness and mechanical ventilation
• Exposure to corticosteroids, neuromuscular blockers, and cumulative sedatives
• Glycemic control, episodes of sepsis, or multiorgan dysfunction

Strength Testing

• Medical Research Council (MRC) sum score: Assess six bilateral muscle groups (shoulder abduction, elbow flexion, wrist extension, hip flexion, knee extension, ankle dorsiflexion); grade 0–5 per muscle.
• Interpretation: A sum score <48 indicates ICU-AW; <36 denotes severe weakness.
• Sedation minimization: Perform testing within 1 hour of a sedation hold; ensure adequate analgesia.

Adjuncts and Documentation

• Handheld dynamometry: Provides objective force measurements but has limited normative data.
• Functional tests: Timed Up and Go or sit-to-stand tests can be used for cooperative patients.
• Documentation: Record both qualitative observations (e.g., “moves against gravity”) and quantitative scores. Repeat assessments daily or every other day to track progression.

2. Laboratory Evaluation

Laboratory tests are primarily used to exclude alternative causes of weakness, as no single biomarker can definitively diagnose ICU-AW.

Key Tests and Interpretation

• Creatine kinase (CK): May be elevated in myocyte injury but is nonspecific, especially in the context of sepsis or rhabdomyolysis. A normal CK does not rule out critical illness myopathy (CIM).
• Inflammatory markers (CRP, procalcitonin): Reflect the severity of systemic inflammation rather than direct neuromuscular injury.
• Electrolytes (K+, Mg2+, Ca2+, phosphate): Abnormalities must be corrected before attributing weakness solely to ICU-AW.
• Metabolic screening: Thyroid function, vitamin D levels, and glucose control should be assessed, as uncontrolled hyperglycemia worsens the risk of neuropathy.

3. Imaging Modalities

Bedside ultrasound is a valuable tool for quantifying muscle atrophy, while CT/MRI are reserved for more detailed structural analysis.

Ultrasound

Ultrasound can measure muscle thickness and echogenicity, typically at the quadriceps, and can detect atrophy within 3–5 days of critical illness. However, its use is limited by operator dependence and a lack of standardized acquisition sites and diagnostic cutoffs.

Cross-Sectional Imaging (CT/MRI)

CT and MRI provide precise analysis of muscle mass and fat infiltration but are limited by cost, patient transport risks, and logistical complexity in the ICU setting.

4. Electrophysiological Studies

Nerve conduction studies (NCS) and electromyography (EMG) are crucial for differentiating the neuropathic and myopathic phenotypes of ICU-AW.

NCS and EMG Patterns

• Critical Illness Polyneuropathy (CIP): Characterized by reduced compound muscle action potential (CMAP) and sensory nerve action potential (SNAP) amplitudes, with preserved conduction velocities.
• Critical Illness Myopathy (CIM): Presents with a low CMAP amplitude, normal SNAP, and diminished muscle excitability on direct stimulation.
• EMG Findings: A myopathic pattern shows small, short-duration motor unit potentials with early recruitment, while a neuropathic pattern shows prolonged polyphasic potentials.

Timing and Precautions

Optimal sensitivity is achieved 7–10 days after ICU admission. Studies should be interpreted in the context of recent neuromuscular blockade and patient temperature. Contraindications include severe coagulopathy or elevated intracranial pressure; consult with hematology if platelets are <50,000/µL.

5. Classification and Severity Scoring

Combining impairment-based scales with functional scales is essential to stratify risk and guide mobilization interventions effectively.

6. Diagnostic Algorithm for Initial Management

A stepwise workflow standardizes assessment from initial screening to the initiation of mobilization, ensuring both safety and timeliness.

Safety Parameters for Mobilization

Before initiating mobilization, ensure the patient meets stability criteria:

• Hemodynamic: MAP 65–110 mmHg; no escalating vasoactive support.
• Respiratory: FiO2 ≤0.6; PEEP ≤10 cm H2O.
• General: Absence of uncontrolled arrhythmias, active bleeding, or rising intracranial pressure.

7. Monitoring and Reassessment Strategies

Ongoing assessment ensures the safe progression of mobility and allows for timely adjustments to the care plan.

Reassessment Frequency

• Severe ICU-AW: Daily strength and functional testing is recommended.
• Mild to Moderate ICU-AW: Reassessment every 48–72 hours is typically sufficient.

Adverse Event Monitoring

Mobilization should be immediately ceased and the patient reassessed if any of the following occur:

• Oxygen desaturation (<88%)
• Significant tachycardia (>140 bpm) or hypotension (systolic <90 mmHg)
• Any medical device dislodgement