Final answer:
The hollowing depression of the temporalis muscle is an indicator of severe muscle loss during a NFPE. The temporalis muscle wasting is a clear sign of significant muscle depletion, while other areas, like the iliac crest prominence, may indicate less severe muscle loss.
Step-by-step explanation:
When conducting a nutrition focused physical exam (NFPE), an indicator of severe muscle loss would be a hollowing depression of the temporalis muscle. This is because the temporalis muscle, located on the side of the head, can show significant wasting in cases of pronounced muscle loss. On the other hand, rounded curves at the arm and shoulder may indicate normal muscle mass and tone, slightly depressed interosseous muscles may indicate mild muscle wasting, and a somewhat prominent iliac crest can indicate a lesser degree of muscle loss but not necessarily severe. It's important to note that the severity of muscle loss should be assessed in the context of the overall muscle strength and muscle tone, with weakness or hypotonicity providing additional information about muscular health.