Cardiac Cachexia
Pronunciation: kah-KEK-see-ah
Unintentional weight loss and muscle wasting associated with advanced heart failure in elderly patients.
Full Definition
Cardiac cachexia is a complex metabolic syndrome characterized by unintentional weight loss, muscle wasting, and weakness in patients with chronic heart failure. This condition is particularly concerning in geriatric cardiology as it indicates advanced disease and poor prognosis. The pathophysiology involves chronic inflammation, neurohormonal activation, and metabolic abnormalities leading to protein-energy malnutrition. Diagnosis requires documented weight loss of at least 6% of body weight over six months in the absence of other causes. Cardiac cachexia significantly impacts quality of life and survival in elderly heart failure patients.
Usage
Usage note: Document specific weight loss percentage and timeframe; distinguish from other causes of weight loss.
In Context
- "The patient developed cardiac cachexia with 15% weight loss over six months despite optimal heart failure therapy." — Heart failure clinic note
- "Cardiac cachexia assessment revealed significant muscle wasting and functional decline." — Geriatric cardiology evaluation