Intermediate
Technical
In the Industry Vocabulary Test
cachexia
Pronunciation: ka-KEK-see-ah
Severe weight loss and muscle wasting syndrome commonly associated with advanced gastrointestinal malignancies.
Full Definition
Cachexia is a complex metabolic syndrome characterized by severe weight loss, muscle wasting, anorexia, and systemic inflammation, commonly observed in patients with advanced gastrointestinal cancers. Unlike simple starvation, cachexia involves alterations in protein and energy metabolism driven by tumor-derived and host-derived factors. The condition significantly impacts treatment tolerance, quality of life, and overall survival, making early recognition and intervention crucial in oncological care.
Usage
Usage note: Not hyphenated; distinguish from simple malnutrition or voluntary weight loss.
In Context
- "Progressive cachexia limited the patient's eligibility for further chemotherapy." — Treatment decision documentation
- "Nutritional intervention failed to reverse cancer-associated cachexia." — Supportive care report
Also known as
wasting syndrome
cancer anorexia-cachexia syndrome
Contrasted with
anabolism
weight gain
Don't confuse with
malnutrition
sarcopenia
anorexia