Diseases
cachexia
For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.
Overview
Cachexia, a wasting syndrome that leads to loss of skeletal muscle and fat, is estimated to occur in up to 80% of people with advanced cancer, depending on different factors. Credit: National Cancer Institute. “I was too weak and I could not lift myself out of the tub.
Symptoms
- fatigue
- reduced muscle strength
- appetite loss (anorexia)
- low fat-free mass index
- high levels of inflammation identified by blood tests
Causes
- cancer
- chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (copd)
- congestive heart failure (chf)
Risk factors
- chronic renal failure
- crohn’s disease
- cystic fibrosis
Diagnosis
- diagnostic criteria for cachexia are a 5% weight loss in 12 months or a body ...
- ... mass index of less than 20 kg/m2 in the presence of a known chronic disease
- ... with at least 3 of the following factors: loss of muscle mass, asthenia.
Medicines used
Frequently asked questions
What is cachexia?
Cachexia, a wasting syndrome that leads to loss of skeletal muscle and fat, is estimated to occur in up to 80% of people with advanced cancer, depending on different factors. Credit: National Cancer Institute. “I was too weak and I could not lift myself out of the tub.
What are the symptoms of cachexia?
fatigue, reduced muscle strength, appetite loss (anorexia), low fat-free mass index, high levels of inflammation identified by blood tests
What causes cachexia?
cancer; chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (copd); congestive heart failure (chf)
Which medicines are used for cachexia?
megestrol, somatropin
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